Automation has done wonders for manufacturing. Factories are safer, more efficient, and less wasteful because of industrial robots. The number of injuries and fatalities in factories have decreased because of automation, and there’s no way that manufacturers could meet consumer demand without the use of factory robots. While manufacturing and industrial sectors have been capitalizing on automation for decades, there are several fields in which the massive potential for automation remains untapped. Automation could do for construction what it has done for manufacturing.
Robots and automation are perfect for construction.
Automated systems can improve processes regardless of the field. We see automation in our grocery stores, our vehicles, and our homes. However, the improvements that automated systems provide are more substantial in some areas than in others. Automated bill paying is convenient, but it pales in comparison to the increased worker safety, improved working conditions, and increased output that industrial automation provides in factories.
Construction is an area that would truly benefit from increased automation. Here are some of the ways that automation would would improve construction:
- Work done on construction sites is physically demanding and labor-intensive. Machines are stronger and more resilient than human workers, They can work longer hours, they don’t need breaks, and they can do more work in a shorter amount of time.
- Many construction tasks require repetitive motions, which can lead to worker injuries. Machines are great at carrying out the same movements with precision, and they won’t get injured in the process.
- Most construction work is about executing plans rather than self-expression or creativity on the fly. If you want a consistent product, you want a machine.
- Temperatures can dictate the speed at which construction projects are completed. Extreme heat and extreme cold can prevent workers from working efficiently, or working at all. Construction robots can be designed to work in extreme temperatures.
- Construction sites often expose workers to hazardous materials. There are also dangers such as sharp objects, heights, falls, lifting injuries, etc. Automation in construction would keep workers from safe.
A recent report from research firm Tractica projects a $226 million revenue market for construction robots by 2025. $226 is a lot of money any way you slice it, but for context, the 2018 market for construction robots was around $22.7 million.
How are your robots?
The traits that make robots perfect for construction work are exactly why we see so many robots used in manufacturing, warehouses, and industrial settings. Many plants still use Indramat servos today, even if the operators aren’t aware of that fact. We can help make sure that your Indramat industrial motion control system still runs strong for years to come.
Call 479-422-0390 for support, service, troubleshooting, and repair for Indramat motion control systems.