Automation engineering – find manufacturers and suppliers

Automation technology deals with the control, regulation and monitoring of machines and processes in order to minimize human intervention.

The aim is to increase efficiency, safety and precision.

Below you will find the functionality and areas of application of automation technology, the advantages and a look into the future of automation technology:

How automation technology works:

Automation systems consist of several components that work together:

1. Sensors:
   Detection of physical variables (temperature, pressure, movement).
   Examples: Temperature sensors, proximity sensors, camera systems.
2. Control systems:
   Process sensor data and control actuators.
   Control types:
   PLC (programmable logic controllers) - industry standard for machine control.
   DCS (Distributed Control Systems) - For complex processes in the chemical and power plant industries.
   CNC (Computerized Numerical Control) - Controlled machine tools.
3. Actuators:
   Implements control commands using motors, valves and robot arms.
4. Communication and networking:
   Connects systems for data transmission or data storage.
   Protocols: OPC UA, MQTT, Ethernet/IP, Modbus.
5. Human-machine interface (HMI):
   Visualizes the processes for operators.
   Touchscreens, SCADA systems (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) enable operation.

Use of automation technology:

Automation is used in various areas:

1. Industrial automation:
Manufacturing automation: use of robots and assembly systems.
Process automation: Control of chemical, pharmaceutical and food processes.

2. Building automation:
Intelligent control of heating, ventilation and lighting.
Smart home technologies.

3. Traffic technology:
Automatic traffic light switching, autonomous driving, train control.

4. Energy technology:
Smart grids, automatic grid monitoring.

5. Medical technology:
Automatic diagnostic devices, robot-assisted surgery.

Advantages of automation technology:

• Increased productivity and efficiency.
• Reduction of errors and rejects.
• Improved safety for people.
• Energy savings through intelligent control.
• Flexibility in production (Industry 4.0).

The future of automation technology:

• Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning improve autonomous systems.
• 5G and IoT enable highly networked, flexible production systems.
• Autonomous robots will find their way into more industries.

Automation technology is indispensable in many industries in order to increase efficiency, productivity and quality. The use of modern technologies such as robotics, AI and IoT will make automation increasingly flexible and powerful.

Here are the most important aspects to look out for when purchasing automation technology:

Purchasing in automation technology plays a central role in the efficient procurement of components, systems and services for production plants and industrial automation.

• The components must be compatible with existing systems and interfaces (e.g. PLC types, bus systems).
• Selection is based on required computing power, cycle times, signal processing, etc.
• Long-term operability is crucial for industrial systems. Pay particular attention to the reliability and service life of the components.
• The components should comply with international standards (ISO 9001, IEC 61131 for PLCs, CE marking).
• Manufacturers should be able to provide test reports and quality certificates.
• Many years of experience and references in the automation industry are important.
• Check the reliability and fail-safety of the systems. High reliability is crucial to avoid unexpected failures.
• Good technical support, sufficient warranty services and spare parts availability are crucial.
• Short response times in the event of faults are an important prerequisite for industrial operation.
• Keep an eye on the total cost of ownership (TCO). In addition to the purchase price, maintenance and training must also be taken into account.
• Energy efficiency should be included in the purchase decision. Low energy consumption reduces operating costs.
• Evaluate the materials and subsequent disposal according to environmental standards.
• Ensure that industry-specific regulations and legal requirements are complied with (e.g. Machinery Directive, ISO standards).
• For networked automation components (Industry 4.0, IoT), you should ensure that appropriate cybersecurity measures are in place to protect your system from hacker attacks.

Purchasing in automation technology requires technical expertise, strategic planning and close cooperation with suppliers. In addition to costs, quality, reliability and long-term availability must be taken into account. Digitalization offers new opportunities for optimizing production processes.

Automation technology can be purchased from various suppliers. Comprehensive information about suppliers of automation technology from all over the world can be found on Exportpages.