‘Industry 4.0’, or ‘the Fourth Industrial Revolution’ refers to the interconnection of automation and manufacturing through the help of technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning and big data. As per a report published by MarketsandMarkets™, the global Smart Manufacturing Market was valued at USD 88.7 billion in 2021 and is projected to reach USD 228.2 billion by 20271, indicating that the adoption of Industry 4.0 will continue to see an upward trend throughout the world.
In line with these developments, WIDMA—Kennametal India’s Machining Solutions Group—a market leader in customized metal cutting machines and CNC Tool Grinding Machines (TGMs), offers various Industry 4.0-ready solutions that enable customers to collect important data and monitor critical parameters through sensors from fixtures and machine accessories. This data is then captured and recorded through software integrated throughout the manufacturing production line. These solutions help customers track equipment efficiency and performance parameters as well. Additionally, the feedback from machine accessories supports predictive maintenance thereby increasing productivity and minimizing downtime.
IoT at WIDMA
All WIDMA machines can be configured for IoT compatibility. This enables tracking and recording of parameters across four major segments—process monitoring, production monitoring, tool and machine monitoring systems and traceability systems.
- Process monitoring is done through I/O based sensors for keeping track of parameters such as levels, pressure, flow and temperature of hydraulic oils, coolants, air, and energy consumption to track wastage.
- Production monitoring is done via tracking of Overall Equipment Efficiency (OEE), production count, downtime and Mean Time Between Failures (MTBF) can be captured through digital signal parameters such as cycle warm up, cycle running, spindle on/off, coolant on/off, cycle stop, etc. This brings real-time visibility of shop floor operations to decision makers.
- Tool and machine performance monitoring is done using devices such as collision detection and tool monitoring units—these detect and record parameters such as load on axis motors and change in vibration levels.
- Traceability systems are implemented via IIoT, which enables manufacturers to trace components for procuring operation details with the help of tracking systems utilizing RFID technology, QR/barcode scanners. This helps manufacturers in identifying and tracking details such as cutting parameters and machine operating information, making it easy to perform root cause analysis in case of defects and complaints.
The above-mentioned capabilities of WIDMA have enabled the brand to adapt to varying customer needs by integrating with existing production lines or specific software options. WIDMA can configure any of the machines to present data in any universal data format such as OPC UA, MT Connect, MT-LINKi and MQTT, ensuring a plug and play experience for our customers.
Not limited to incorporating IoT in machines, WIDMA also integrates automation throughout the product manufacturing process, right from the design board to remote commissioning and diagnostics using innovative virtual reality.
WIDMA is continuously innovating to empower customers to change the game by building game-changing machines.
