Breaking The Myths of Robots in Powder Weighing

We all know that one day we will make the move to an electric vehicle; it is inevitable - it is the way the world is going. However, it is estimated that currently only 1 in 250 cars on the road are electric. There are two key factors that hinders change, ‘the fear of the unknown’ and the ‘fear of failure.’

It is a similar story in the world of manufacturing.  We all know that the future will be “automated” and in contrast to our digital robotic everyday lives (think smartphones, robotic vacuum cleaners) the pace of adoption of these new technologies in industry can often seem slow due to the same two fears.

When we fear change, the coping mechanism is to create myths…well they are not really myths; they are excuses for not making a decision or taking action. In this blog we look to break some of the so-called myths that are delaying manufacturers from making the inevitable step on the journey to robotic automation.

Our focus is on the area of robotic automation in powder handling and weighing as this is the area in which we are specialists in and it covers a broad spectrum of industries from food and beverage to tyre manufacturers, from cosmetics to paint and coverings.

Myth: We don’t have room in our factory for a robot

One of the benefits of robotic automation is that it can operate in a very compact cell. OAL’s APRIL Robotics standard cell can store 6,000kg and weigh powders in a space of only 7m x 7m which is normally less space than taken up by existing powder weighing operations.

Myth: The powders we work with are too cohesive for automation

The precise movement of the robotic arm and powerful software alogithims means that even the most cohesive powders can be handled accurately. With APRIL, we have tested over hundred of different powdesr types and consistently achieve accuracy of +/-1%, often more. We always welcome organisations to provide samples for us to test.

Myth: We have too many ingredients

Simplifying the complex is where robotic automation excels. A single APRIL cell can store up to 120 different raw materials in the cell with unlimited raw materials stored in ASCs offline. One of the benefits of robots is that they always remember where they have put things, unlike humans.

Myth: We make lots and lots of different batch types

Robots are far better at repetitive tasks than humans as they never get bored or distracted. They are also better than humans at constantly changing batch types. They do not have to learn new recipes; every batch is digitally instructed. 

Myth: We don’t have staff who can operate robots

Most manufacturers have packaging line robots and understand the training and maintenance requirements. Using robots upsteam provides opportunities to upskill operatives and engage teams with modern digital technologies.

Myth: The required investment is too great and payback period too long

Most powder weighing applications can achieve a payback in two years through reduced operating costs and improved raw material yield. Other key benefits to consider are improved agility,  quality and traceability security, and the reduction in health and safety risks. Add all of these together and an attractive business case can be created.

We would love to hear any other myths you may have about robotic automation, and always happy to discuss these with you. Simply reach out to the OAL team – contact us.