NC Embraces Manufacturing Process Automations

National Composites sees automation and a strong labor force as the future of the industry.

National Composites believes in automation. So much so that we have already installed two new trim cells into our plants and have three more trim cells and three robotic sprayers on the way. This type of automation not only streamlines our processes and maximizes efficiencies, but also scales up our production capacity. With increased productivity and capacity, this allows NC and our family of facilities to add shifts and hence add to the workforce.

Intelligent automation in manufacturing keeps engineers and machine operators safe during high volume, stress-heavy manufacturing processes. Automation tools in the molding process also help ensure parts are properly made, accurately measured, and formed to completion.

Automation is becoming increasingly prevalent throughout every type of manufacturing because automated systems can take on most aspects of the work without operator action. This results in:

• Better utilization of the machines. Automated systems are interconnected and communicate through a centralized control system. This type of molding equipment will generate analytics that allows users to identify opportunities for improvement and alert human operators when parts malfunction or need inspection.

• Faster production: Robotic systems can move through processes without interruption. Properly maintained automated systems would operate 24/7, resulting in better per-unit production and quick order completion.

• Reduced labor costs: Robotic systems can handle work that previously required multiple people, allowing facilities to take on more orders with fewer staff members. Lower direct labor costs and associated expense reductions ultimately result in lower overall project costs.

• More sustainable fabrication. Because automated machines create high volumes of products with low error rates, they generate less waste from rejected or deformed parts.

Automation is important to the future of the industry and National Composites is leading the way.