In Europe, the manufacturing market is expected to grow by 3.93% by 2028, reaching a whopping value of £2.83 trillion.
As the world continues to change and priorities shift, the European manufacturing industry is finding several ways to keep up with technologies, emerging trends, and eco-conscious strategies.
For example, by 2030, 60% of all manufacturing production will make use of sustainable practices, meaning that the sector is trying to play a significant part in preserving the well-being of the planet.
But what other innovations are driving this thriving industry forward? Welding Alloys, a leading expert in hardfacing for welding businesses, explores what exciting tech trends are gradually shaping the new manufacturing landscape.
Additive manufacturing (3D printing)
Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, is one of the most popular innovations embraced across the sector.
Mario Cordero, Group Innovation Director at Welding Alloys, said: “3D printing is becoming an increasingly common solution to speed up production processes at a more favourable and affordable cost.
“The beauty of this technology is that it allows businesses to create items layer by layer with computer-aided design (CAD) support. Through the help of this innovative tool, manufacturers can assemble complex designs that would otherwise be challenging and expensive to produce with more manual, conventional methods.
“In this respect, 3D printing opens the door to customisations, too. Because every manufactured item is based on a digital blueprint, each product can be easily tweaked without the need for retooling. This is particularly useful for the healthcare and medical sectors, where splints, supports, and health devices can be customised to suit a specific patient’s diagnosis.
“That said, the versatility of 3D printing can be extended to a wide range of businesses in the manufacturing industry, including aerospace, automotive, and consumer goods.”
Robotics and cobots
Robots and cobots are becoming a frequent sight in manufacturing industries in Europe and across the world. For example, in Germany alone, automotive companies are home to 1,500 robotic units for every 10,000 employees.
The benefit of robots is that they can take care of a large array of tedious, physically demanding tasks while maintaining accuracy, efficiency, and quality throughout. What’s more, they can help reduce wastage and breakages caused by inconsistent finishings or below-par quality products.
Nowadays, advanced industrial robots are equipped with sensors and artificial intelligence, meaning they can detect potential issues from the off and carry out a programmed motion with limited lag.
As for ‘cobots’, these collaborative machines are built to share workspaces with humans, to keep people safe and to alleviate the demands of their jobs. For example, in hazardous environments, risky processes are often delegated to cobots, which can, in turn, prevent serious and avoidable injuries.
Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT)
The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is an innovative, data-driven approach that allows businesses in the manufacturing sector to collect, monitor, and analyse production figures.
With real-time data, companies can make more informed decisions and swiftly improve operations.
What is truly clever about IIoT is that it also interconnects machines, devices, and appliances used in the manufacturing process. By communicating and sharing data, every machine reacts accordingly, resulting in more efficiency, budget-friendly costs, and better-quality products.
IIoT can be widely used across the industry, benefitting pharmaceutical, chemical, electronics, and food and beverage manufacturing businesses.
Augmented reality (AR)
Another piece of modern technology that is slowly taking the manufacturing sector to the next level is augmented reality (AR).
AR is already a prominent feature in the gaming and education industries, allowing users to interact with virtual items and increasing consumers’ engagement rates. By 2030, the AR gaming market is projected to be worth more than £22 billion.
The good news is that AR’s characteristics can also benefit the manufacturing world, as it can optimise the training and development of new and existing employees.
AR provides a safe, immersive platform where workers can learn and practice new skills without the worry of making costly or dangerous mistakes.
So, for example, when aerospace engineers need to train for repairs to complex and sophisticated machinery, they can do so with confidence and much-needed peace of mind.
As the manufacturing industry in Europe continues to evolve, more and more businesses are exploring new innovative trends to power their operations and increase efficiency, quality, and profits.
From 3D printing and robotics to augmented reality and IIoT, several tech tools are helping the manufacturing landscape improve for the better.
