Automation equipment investments can often be tricky for manufacturing teams, so here are some common mistakes that you should avoid!
The Zaxis experts have supported countless manufacturing teams throughout recent decades when it comes to choosing automation equipment, and we’ve noticed several common issues that new clients come to us with that need resolving.
Our state-of-the-art air leak testers and precision metering pumps serve many industries throughout the United States and across the globe, and we’re always fully committed to setting your manufacturing processes up for long-term success.
Below are some common manufacturing mistakes that business leaders need to avoid while they’re investing in automation equipment!
Not Understanding Your Unique Automation Equipment Specifications
Before you reach out to an automation equipment supplier like Zaxis, you should try to consider all of your vital data and unique company needs. This can include determining your required test pressure, leak rate, cycle rates, etc.
And if you’ve had past issues with your leak testers or other automation equipment, take some time to document the problems that you’ve come across. Be sure to document how certain automation processes went for you—including both the good and the bad.
This type of information is very important for us as we create your custom specs and solutions!
Choosing An Automation Equipment Supplier That Doesn’t Meet Your Company’s Needs
Prior to choosing your next automation equipment supplier, business leaders need to consider how the supplier fits the scope and size of their company’s projects.
This might require a lot of research oriented around your prospective automation equipment and supplier, because you’ll want to know that you can trust your provider before investing in any large-scale, customized solutions.
We’ve come across countless businesses that were unsatisfied with their previous supplier, and this is why we’re always available for in-person meetings and video conferences to help you better understand how our equipment can support your company’s short and long-term goals!
Incorrect Automation Cost Estimates
A lot of manufacturing businesses underestimate how much their automation projects will ultimately cost, and this is why business leaders need to maintain realistic budgets.
This is one of many reasons why we recommend reaching out to our specialists and letting us know what your budget is, because this will give our team a better idea of what your best options are and how you can set your manufacturing up for success.
No one wants to feel stuck with subpar automation equipment, because this could actually end up costing your company more money and time in the long run!
Inadequate In-House Tech Capabilities For Automation Support
Every manufacturer needs enough staff to support new automation projects, and this pertains to installation, integration, development and post-installation requirements.
This is why business leaders need to thoroughly assess their current in-house capabilities, and also be prepared for additional support investments. It’s also a good idea for manufacturing teams to consider their future support systems, because knowing whether or not you’re committed to a larger, long-term team is a big part of designing your automation solutions.
Not Involving Your Maintenance & Production Teams In The Automation Process
This is another very common mistake that new clients come to us with, because it can be very problematic when your production team isn’t on the same page as your manufacturing team while you’re developing automation solutions.
It’s also important to keep your maintenance team in the loop when you’re making these investments, because production and maintenance specialists will help you better understand your power requirements, production line weaknesses, space availability, air requirements, and a lot more.
Poor Communication With Automation Equipment Vendor
When your business takes on a big project with an automation equipment vendor like Zaxis, it’s important to have a dedicated employee or two that maintains communication with our specialists.
It can go a long way to let us know how our equipment is working for your team, as well as if any changes or new manufacturing requirements come up.
Accepting Automation Equipment Before You’re Ready
Another common issue that manufacturing teams typically deal with is accepting automation equipment before they’ve made accurate plans and tests.
Our team will always help you when it comes to making sure that your new solutions meet your unique requirements, but there’s still a lot that your team will need to verify in order to ensure that you’re ready for your new equipment.
Automation Design Failures
This is yet another fundamental flaw that can set manufacturers up for a lot of headaches right at the beginning of their automation process.
Your automation processes are supposed to be simple and repeatable, and this requires a lot of time put into your design features.
Using The Wrong Automation Equipment For Your Applications
It’s often tempting for business leaders to cut costs by investing in simpler automation solutions that are available in today’s marketplace, but it’s always much wiser to find the very best automation equipment that applies to your unique applications and manufacturing strategies.
It’s also important for manufacturing teams to understand how their new automation equipment will lead to future business growth. Even though you’ll likely be investing more today, it’s inevitable that your automation will lead to more cost-effective production and manufacturing processes that boost your bottom line.
Contact The Zaxis Experts To See How Our Automation Equipment Can Support Your Manufacturing Team!
Getting your automation equipment investments correct the first time is imperative for every business, and this is particularly the case for manufacturing teams.
Zaxis is one of the leading suppliers of automation equipment like air leak testers and precision metering pumps in the United States, and our specialists are just a click away when you have questions or concerns about your next equipment investments.
Reach out to us online or give us a call at 801-264-1000 to speak with us today about how we can support your company’s unique manufacturing needs!
