CPV Manufacturing builds for a variety of industries

CPV Manufacturing designs valves and fitting for the unique requirements of many different industries. We have been manufacturing equipment for high-pressure applications for more than 100 years. We understand that critical applications need the highest quality valves and fittings. Our team creates equipment that can stand up to harsh environments while meeting and exceeding all industry standards. Find out more about the industries we serve and how we can manufacture the perfect valves or fittings for your unique application.

Shipbuilding
Shipbuilding and marine valves and fitting must be reliable, durable, and easy to maintain and operate. We manufacture a huge variety of high quality fluid valves and pipe fitting for ships, including valves used on U.S. Navy ships and nuclear submarines. Our equipment is made to stand up to the vibration, pressure, and environmental conditions that affect ship’s valves and pipe fittings. Whether you are looking for hand valves, check valves, air-actuated valves, high-pressure relief valves, or something else, we can help.

Petrochemical
Natural gas and petroleum operations rely on precise pressurized systems for daily operations, worker safety, and environmental protection. CPV Manufacturing creates valves and fittings that are resistant to the chemicals, corrosion, and high temperatures of petrochemical facilities and operations. We meticulously test our products to ensure they are reliable, and we design our valves to lower fugitive emissions. Come to us for custom valves and fittings created for your unique petrochemical operation.

Industrial Gas
Industrial gas operations and automated filling stations require valves and fittings that can carefully and automatically control pressure under a variety of temperature ranges. CPV Manufacturing creates pneumatic valves and control actuators for custom industrial gas operations. Our products are designed to improve efficiency and perform reliably for long periods of time. Come to our experts for more information on our industrial gas valves and control systems.

Chlorine
Chlorine is very dangerous in its liquid or gaseous form and the reliability of pressurized systems that contain it are paramount. We design fluid fittings and valves that stand up to corrosion, prevent chlorine from reacting with outside substances, and prevent the release of toxic gas. Our products are carefully tested and are designed to minimize fugitive emissions from chlorine systems. Learn more about CPV’s high quality valves and fittings designed for chlorine applications.

Oil & Gas
Oil and gas valves and fittings are subjected to high-pressure, extreme environmental conditions, and mechanical vibration. At CPV Manufacturing, we create durable valves and fittings for the oil and gas industry that are carefully designed to stand up to these conditions. All of our valves and fittings are designed to reduce the environmental and financial impact of fugitive emissions. Our experts are here to create high-performance valves and fittings for your specific oil and gas industry applications.

Pharmaceutical
Valves and fittings used in the pharmaceutical industry must perform reliably and precisely for long periods of time. CPV excels at creating valves and fittings that adhere to the most stringent standards. We know the important role our valves and fittings play in complex medical and pharmaceutical equipment. Our manufacturing experts create products like rising stem valves, soft-seated valves, and more that fit your exact requirements.

Find the Right Fittings for Hydraulic Accumulators and Critical Applications

When high pressure gases and liquids are stored and moved by machinery, there is always potential for serious problems to occur. Critical applications across the military and in various commercial industries require reliable hydraulic accumulators and precise fluid and gas control. Everything from torpedo doors and submarine systems to massive power turbines require the highest level of quality and design when it comes to control valves and fittings. Impeccable design and manufacturing processes are a must for hydraulic accumulators. The safety of workers and the structural integrity of an entire system can come down to a single steel fitting. At CPV manufacturing, we understand the importance of every product we create. We know that lives can often depend on the strength of something very small. Our fittings are manufactured to stand up to the steep requirements created by various critical military and commercial applications. Have a look at how specially designed and manufactured fittings for hydraulic accumulators can help keep people and systems safe.

High pressure systems can strain metal and wear down important components. The potential for leaks means that pipe fitting must resist wear for long periods of time, while also preventing airtight seals from breaking. Proper high pressure fittings are manufactured with high quality materials and methods that resist wear and environmental effects. CPV’s fittings have been meticulously tested to ensure strength and durability under extreme conditions. In all break tests we have conducted, tubing has burst before any fittings.

Fitting design is equally as important as the materials used. Fittings must be engineered to fit custom systems and address common issues in fluid and gas movement and storage. Proper installation is also vitally important. When looking for a custom fitting or standard fittings for hydraulic accumulators, it is imperative to choose a manufacturer with experience creating for critical applications. When the cost of failed equipment is incredibly high, specially made fittings are a must.

For assistance selecting the correct fitting for your application, contact our team at salesadm@cpvmfg.com.

The Most Common Actuator Types You Need to Know About (2020)

The engineering field is one that is growing at a rate of 8 percent over the next several years, which is faster than average when compared to other industries.

In that regard, actuators are a type of equipment that transcends different types of engineering fields. As such, you need to learn all about different actuator types so that you can find the right one for your specific application.

Consider the points in this article to make sure that you are choosing the best actuator.

The Actuator Types You Need to Know About

In order to handle your actuator work, you’ll need to know the ins and outs of what they are, how they work and what makes them different.

Looking into the right product valve types can help you buy the right kind for you.

Here are some of the most common types:

1. Rotary Valve Actuator

This is a type of valve actuator that takes various kinds of power, such as electricity and pneumatics, in order to turn it into mechanical energy.

The benefit of rotary valve actuators is that they have various types of motions that direct the drive and force as needed. They are able to work through a number of different configurations and can make the best use of torque, speed, and other variables.

2. Linear Valve Actuator

These actuators are different from rotary valve actuators because they move in more direct movements.

There are a number of applications that produce motion, which is why linear valve actuators are useful in a variety of industries. Variables like oil pressure and liquid flow come into play when getting the best work from these actuators.

3. Lead Screw Actuator

The mechanisms for this type of actuator are more simplistic and straightforward compared to other types.

They generally involve electricity and will allow you to drive the lead screw in a variable motion. This transfer of power allows for an easy assembly and the best use of power.

4. Pneumatic Actuator

This form of valve actuator uses compressed air to power your tool. Compressed air also happens to be one of the most powerful types of force you can use in engineering.

Be mindful of the maintenance costs of your pneumatic actuator, since compressed air makes up approximately 24 percent of the yearly compressed air costs.

5. Manual Valve Actuator

Finally, manual valve actuators involve levers, steering wheels, pulleys, and other devices that an operator controls with their hand.

They come with a variety of switches and other control systems that help you out. The varying degrees of rotation help you to apply different forces depending on your needs.

Choose the Right Actuators for Your Business

As you can see, there are several different actuator types that you can look into. When you learn about the different types of valve actuators, you will be able to handle your engineering processes in a way that makes the most sense for you.

Mix and match these different types of actuators as you build the perfect setup.

Take the time to contact us for all of your actuator needs.

A Stainless Steel Comparison – Grade 316 vs. Grade 304

All steels have the same basic iron and carbon composition, but stainless steel also contains a healthy dose of
chromium—the alloy that gives stainless steel its famous corrosion resistance. Stainless steel stains less easily than
other iron-based metals, but it’s not literally “stainless”. Just like standard steel, stainless can get marked up by
fingerprints and grease, develop discoloration, and eventually rust. The difference is resilience. Stainless steel can
withstand much more time and abuse before showing signs of wear.

Stainless steel must contain at least 10.5 percent chromium. Depending on the grade, it may contain much higher
chromium levels, and additional alloying ingredients. There are multiple grades under the stainless steel umbrella, each
with slightly different alloy composition, and therefore slightly different physical characteristics. Stainless steel types
include Ferritic, Austenitic, Martensitic, Duplex, and Precipitation Hardening (PH). A quick primer on the definitions of
stainless steel types can be found here.

The two most common austenitic stainless steel grades are 304 and 316. The key difference between stainless steel
grades 304 and 316 is the addition of molybdenum, an alloy that drastically enhances corrosion resistance, especially for
more saline or chloride-exposed environments. Commonly found in marine applications, 316 stainless steel contains 2
to 3% molybdenum, while 304 has none.

(Excerpts and content above from Reliance Foundry. “304 Stainless Steel versus 316 Stainless Steel”)

For pressure vessel components – our G-Series® & Mark VIII® Valves and all O-SEAL & Mark VIII® Fittings – CPV
Manufacturing uses austenitic grade 316/L SS as our standard offering. The 316 stainless steel we procure for our
fittings is dual certified to both 316 and 316L Grade. This dual certification ensures that the carbon content is 0.03% or
lower and the material has outstanding weldability.

Here’s a quick breakdown on the chemical composition, differentiating the two grades of stainless steel:

(Source: Australian Stainless Steel Development Association. “316: The First Step Up“)

(Source: Australian Stainless Steel Development Association. “304: The Place to Start“)

A few more key differences between these 304SS and 316SS include:
316/L stainless steel:

Superior corrosion resistance
Chlorine resistant
Molybdenum content provides greater resistance to chemical attack than 304/L.
- Is required for the manufacture of certain pharmaceuticals in order to avoid excessive metallic
  contamination, usually from manufacturing equipment.
Considerably more resistant to solutions of sulfuric acid, chlorides, bromides, iodides and fatty acids at high
temperatures.
Common applications:
- Offshore, marine (especially with chlorides present) & washdown
- Chemical processing and storage equipment
- Refinery equipment
- Medical devices & pharmaceutical equipment
- Outdoor electrical enclosures
UL Nema 4x rated & certified

304/L stainless steel (also known as 18-8 or 18/8):

Lowest Cost Corrosion Resistance Option
No limitations on fabrication
Resistant to oxidation
Common applications:
- Auto moldings and trim
- Wheel covers
- Storage tanks
- Kitchen equipment/appliances
- Electrical enclosures
UL Nema 4x rated & certified

(Excerpts and content above from Nema Enclosures. “What’s the difference between 304 and 316 stainless steel?”)

CPV Manufacturing stocks all standard fittings in 316/L stainless steel because of its strength, enhanced corrosion
resistance and compatibility with various gases. Experience shows its superior functionality in a wide variety of critical
industrial applications and environmental conditions.

We can provide 304/L stainless components in certain applications if requested by the customer. However, 316/L is the
material of choice and is generally suitable for anywhere 304/L is used.

Please reach out to our Sales Team here for further information and quote requests. Our Engineering team can answer
any technical questions you may have as well!

Additional Sources used for this article:

Arthur Harris & Co. “The Pros and Cons of 304 VS 316 Stainless Steel”
British Stainless Steel Association. How many types of stainless steel are there?
Covert, Roger A. and Arthur H. Tuthill. “Stainless Steels: An Introduction to Their Metallurgy and Corrosion
Resistance“. Dairy, Food and Environmental Sanitation, vol. 20, no. 7. July 2000.
Metal Supermarkets. “The Difference Between 304 and 316 Stainless Steel”
Nema Enclosures. “Stainless Steel For Coastal and Salt Corrosion”

Fugitive Emissions Packing Standards: Understanding API 622

Fugitive Emissions Packing Standards: Understanding API 622 Increasing pressure from the public and lawmakers about global warming and other environmental hazards has resulted in stricter standards for fugitive emissions. Fugitive emissions are gases or vapors, such as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and greenhouse gases, that leak from pressurized equipment into the atmosphere. Fugitive emissions are costly not only in terms of human and environmental health, but they also pose a threat to profits in many industries.

Fugitive emissions can emanate from a number of sources in machinery, including valves, flanges, seals, sample connections, open-ended lines, pressure relief devices and screwed fittings. However, valves account for the greatest amount of fugitive emissions released from industrial processes, so selecting the right valve is key to ensuring an effective emissions control strategy.

The Evolution of Emissions Testing

The problem of air pollution was first brought to light in 1955 with the passing of the Air Pollution Control Act, which provided funds for government research into air pollution. This was followed by the Clean Air Act of 1963, which was aimed at improving and accelerating programs to prevent and decrease pollution. Amendments to the Clean Air Act in the 1970s meant new approaches to regulation, including national air quality standards as well as measurement and tracking of fugitive emissions.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) began pursuing refineries, chemical plants, and other emissions-producing industries to institute leak detection and repair programs and to ensure that they were not under-reporting emissions. Companies that were found to be in violation were fined and issued consent decrees.

To ensure that they complied with regulations and help determine which valve manufacturers offered the best products to protect against leakage, end users and even some manufacturers developed their own testing methods and standards. These tests varied widely, however, rendering them unreliable.

Today, the EPA, International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and TA-Luft set the standards for emissions around the world. Here we detail API Standard 622, “Type Testing of Process Valve Packing for Fugitive Emissions.”

API Standard 622: Valve Packing

The valve packing standard API 622, which was revised most recently in 2011, is the industry standard for determining whether valve packing is sufficient to prevent or abate emissions leaks. Set by the American Petroleum Institute, the test evaluates three areas of the packing:

Emissions, or leak rate
Resistance to corrosion
Materials

To ensure test uniformity, the standard dictates that every test rig mimics a 4-inch 300-pound gate valve. For accurate results, it’s important to use the most current version of the standard.

Emissions

The emissions portion of API 622 is not a pass/fail test. Rather, it measures valve performance—how many thermal cycles the valve can withstand before emissions exceed the allowable rate of 500 ppm. An emission rate below 500 ppm is considered low, although many manufacturers hold themselves to an internal standard of 100 or 200 ppm during this test.

The emissions testing takes 6 days, during which 1500 cycles are completed. The first 5 days involve thermal actuation cycles. Day 1 includes 150 cycles at ambient temperature, followed by 150 cycles at 500°F. Everything is allowed to cool overnight, and the process is then repeated once daily for 5 more days.

If the packing continues to pass through day 5—proving that it can withstand a significant amount of stress—the process is repeated on day 6. The last thermal cycle on day 6 is followed by 10 more cycles at ambient temperature.

Because methane gas is used, the test is run outdoors. The leak detection method used is EPA method 21, which is employed in a number of valve standards and ensures consistency across tests. Leakage is measured with the valve stem in a stationary position. The test allows for 1 re-torque. That is, if the valve exceeds the allowable leakage of 500 ppm (or the set internal rate), the gland bolts can be re-torqued and the gland load reapplied one time. Typically, this allows the leak rate to come down to a safe emissions level and the test can continue.

Corrosion

The corrosion portion of the test is conducted in a different test rig than the emissions portion. It is a time-based, observational test; it is not pass/fail. Its purpose is to identify how much pitting occurs in the metal (which is based on how much the packing sticks to the stem) as well as the general condition of the packing.

To conduct the test, the packing is soaked and compressed to 30,000 megapascals and left to sit wrapped around a piece of metal. Different metals can be tested to see how the packing will affect different valve stems.

Material

This portion of the standard is about getting to know the material properties of your packing. It tests the packing’s weight and density, how much lubricant it contains, the polytetrafluoroethylene content, and whether any chemicals (e.g., chlorides, fluorides) are leaching out of it.

This portion of the test does include a pass-fail component. If weight loss for graphite foil packing exceeds 15% at a temperature of 538°C, the packing is considered to have failed. For graded packing, 50% weight loss is allowed before it is rated as failing the standard.

The Future of API 622

API 622 has been in effect for 6 years. With technology continuing to improve packing, the achievable leak rate for most of the industry is already 100 ppm. It’s likely, therefore, that this will be the leak rate measured against in the next revision of the standard, with no re-torque allowed.

About CPV Manufacturing

CPV’s high-quality valves and fittings are also used in the oil and gas industry. In this industry, it’s essential that all products perform properly for efficiency and safety and to minimize risks.

CPV’s innovative designs have become fundamental in the daily functions of gas-filling stations and plants, increasing productivity as well as accuracy.

Click here to find out more about CPV’s products.

How the Skills Gap Could Affect Your Manufacturing Business

The United States manufacturing industry is booming, but has yet to overcome the skills gap. The skills gap is not the newest challenge for the industry, but it’s the biggest. And with the surge of retiring baby boomers and the increasing dependence on smart manufacturing technologies, the skills gap is only expected to grow wider over time.

That’s why it’s more important than ever to start thinking about how the skills gap could affect your manufacturing business and what you need to do to minimize its effects.

The Skills Gap in U.S. Manufacturing

A skills gap refers to the difference in the skills required for a job and the actual skills a potential employee has. A skills gap in manufacturing can cause a number of issues for many companies. However, the biggest concerns caused by this ongoing problem are worker shortages and the inability to meet consumer demands.

Worker Shortages in Manufacturing

With more and more baby boomers (Americans born from 1946 to 1964) retiring, businesses are losing technicians, machinists, operators, and other highly skilled workers more quickly than ever before, according to a study by the Manufacturing Institute and Deloitte.

The study also states that manufacturing companies have started to focus on hiring younger talent, which has opened more job opportunities across the country. The problem, however, is that businesses are unable to find suitable workers to replace their retiring employees.

According to The Wall Street Journal, technical education and training systems haven’t evolved to cater to the advancements and changes within the industry. Because of this, the younger generation doesn’t have the proper training needed to fulfill skilled job roles within the industry. This has led to many unfilled jobs and workers’ shortages all over the country.

Inability to Fulfill Consumer Demands

skills gap Because it’s gotten so difficult to find qualified employees, businesses have had trouble keeping up with and fulfilling consumer demands. With a lack of skilled employees, productivity can decline and lead to slower production times, increased operation costs, and other performance issues.

On top of that, the skills gap can affect a company’s ability to stay competitive in the global market, according to a recent U.S. News & World Report article. This means that U.S. manufacturing companies suffering from lack of workers due to the skills gap can experience decreased profits and overall global success.

How to Fill the Skills Gap in Manufacturing

The skills gap can be intimidating for many manufacturing businesses. However, there are ways to start filling the gap and minimize its effects on your company. The best way to do that is to offer training to the younger generation.

Start by working with technical schools and colleges to provide education programs for jobs in the manufacturing industry. Then, offer apprenticeships to attract and train new talent for your company.

Once you start hiring more people, reevaluate your training program and make sure everything is updated to cater to the changes in your business and the industry. For example, if you recently implemented a new system or tool to the production floor, make sure you train all new and current employees on its operation, best practices, and safety procedures.

By providing the right education and training to students and young employees, you’ll be able to find and hire skilled workers to fill the skills gap in your manufacturing business.

For more industry news and tips, read CPV Manufacturing’s blog.

3D Printing: Changing the Future of the Manufacturing Industry

3D printing is slowly becoming the standard for many manufacturing businesses, and it’s easy to see why. Known to promote faster production times and reduced operation costs, 3D printing is one of the most useful pieces of technology for any manufacturing company.

3D printing is relatively new, but we can already tell that it’ll transform the future of manufacturing in the best ways imaginable. Here are a few ways 3D printing is changing the future of the manufacturing industry.

Faster Product Development Through 3D Printing

3D Printing From designing new parts to testing and producing them, the product development cycle can be an extensive and time-consuming process for manufacturing companies. However, this product development will work to change that.

3D printing has been used for rapid prototyping for years. Rapid prototyping refers to creating copies of new product designs for testing. In the past, the process would take weeks to complete due to slow delivery times. Now, thanks to new automation technologies and printing services from global distribution companies, businesses can go through the rapid prototyping phase quicker, saving them both time and money.

3D printing is also changing the way companies create and test prototypes of new designs. Ford, for example, has used this technology to create more than 500,000 parts. Usually, the process of making and testing products took about four to five months and cost the company about $500,000. With 3D printing, they were able to produce parts in just hours or days, and the entire process would only cost a few thousand dollars.

Support Lean Manufacturing

Lean manufacturing has provided businesses with countless benefits and has helped to increase productivity and overall efficiency. 3D printing will make it easier for companies to follow and support the lean manufacturing process.

Lean manufacturing focuses heavily on reducing waste to enhance efficiency. One way to reduce waste is to stop overproducing parts and products. With this technology, overproduction will become a thing of the past. As technologies continue to advance, this technology will help businesses produce products more quickly and efficiently. On top of that, it’ll allow companies to manufacture items as needed, thus reducing the number of wasted products, as well as inventory and operational costs.

3D Printing Enhancing Product Flexibility

One of the biggest ways 3D printing is changing the future of the manufacturing industry is by increasing product creation flexibility and customization. Because this technology can help companies perform low volume production, they can create and test different kinds of parts, as well as products that are customized to meet specific consumer needs.

This is a fairly new method of production for the manufacturing industry. However, future technological advancements will promote higher levels of product customization to better serve the consumer market and increase overall profits.

3D printing isn’t the only technology that’s changing the future of the manufacturing industry. To learn more about the groundbreaking technologies in this industry, read our post discussing M2M Technology in Manufacturing, which is driving efficiency and lowering costs.

2016 Managing Aging Plants Conference & Expo

The Materials Technology Institute (MTI) and KCI Publishing will host the Managing Aging Plants Conference & Expo on November 9 and 10 at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, TX. During this two-day event, industry leaders and experts will come together to provide tips for operating your plant and handling issues.

About the Managing Aging Plants Conference & Expo

2016 Managing Aging Plants Conference & Expo The Managing Aging Plants Conference & Expo strives to provide those in the industry with the resources needed to run their plant more efficiently. This is the first Managing Aging Plants Conference & Expo for North America, and it will focus on the most important issues that can occur when running a plant that is close to or has reached its original design life expectancies. The event is also held in Germany and Japan.

The two-day event will feature presentations and workshops led by prominent industry experts. This includes John Adler, Executive Director of the MTI, who will discuss the best practices in creating a framework for managing aging infrastructures. Tyron Kimble, Senior Integrity Engineer for Sonomatic, will talk about the best practices for inspecting and analyzing data for managing an aging plant.

Other presentations slated for the Managing Aging Plants Conference & Expo include:

Management of Complex Facilities Using Robots
Cost-Effective Polymeric Heavy Corrosion Systems in Aging Plants
5 Steps to Successful Repairs
Valve Maintenance Practices for Aging Plants to Ensure Leak Free Operations & Modern Sealing Technology for Flanged Joints in Aging Plants

In the expo portion of the event, manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors worldwide will showcase their products and services that can make running an aging plant easier and more efficient.

Conference Theme and Overall Focus

2016 Managing Aging Plants Conference & Expo Overall, the Managing Aging Plants Conference & Expo will focus on four areas that workers need to understand to overcome the challenges faced when running an older plant:

Maintenance

The conference will highlight the importance of maintenance and what workers need to do to ensure long-lasting efficiency, reliability, and safety. This includes tips for inspections and repairs for software systems and mechanical components like valves and fittings.

Safety

Perhaps the most prominent concern with aging plants is safety. At the event, experts will discuss how to ensure safety in the workplace and how to create a maintain a safety culture within your company.

Materials

Certain materials react differently to external factors and can cause problems in aging plants. The conference will focus on how to overcome these problems and help you to understand how each material affects production. Plus it will also touch on how to choose the right materials for your plant.

Future Solutions

The Managing Aging Plants Conference & Expo will address the ever-changing industry and the newest technologies. There will be workshops and presentations discussing Industry 4.0, intelligent software, and smart data analysis as well as how these technologies promote efficiency and cost-effective solutions for your plant.

To learn more about the Managing Aging Plants Conference & Expo, check out the event’s official brochure.

And if you’re looking for reliable parts to help you make operating your aging plant safer and easier, contact CPV Manufacturing for more information about our selection of durable valves and fittings.

Agile Manufacturing Solutions

Manufacturing companies want to operate as efficiently as possible without having to spend too much on labor and overall production costs. While that seems farfetched, there’s a way for your company to operate in an efficient and cost-effective manner. All you have to do is implement agile manufacturing solutions into your business strategy.

What is Agile Manufacturing?

Agile Manufacturing Solutions Agile manufacturing is similar to lean manufacturing. It focuses on eliminating waste and bottlenecks in the workplace to help your business perform as quickly as possible without sacrificing the quality of your product.

However, agile manufacturing also stresses the importance of customer satisfaction. It’s designed to help companies meet and exceed customer demands by improving production time, operation costs, and delivery time.

Benefits of Agile Manufacturing

Implementing an agile manufacturing strategy in your business will yield great benefits to both your consumers and your company. With agile manufacturing, consumers can receive the products they ordered immediately. It also allows companies to provide more options to better meet each consumers’ specific demands.

In addition, agile manufacturing will help to prevent overproduction and help to reduce operation and labor costs. Since agile manufacturing works to help businesses operate as quickly as possible, it can reduce the amount of waste within the production line, thus reducing storage costs and overall manufacturing overhead costs.

And those reduced costs can help you provide cost-effective solutions to your customers, which can help your business gain a competitive advantage in the market.

How to Implement Agile Manufacturing

Agile Manufacturing Solutions Agile manufacturing has four elements:

Modular product design
Information technology
Corporate partners
Knowledge culture

Each element provides ways to implement a successful agile manufacturing strategy in your businesses.

Modular Product Design

Having a modular product design helps manufacturing companies provide more options. Instead of creating one product as a whole, consider producing parts that can be assembled into specific products. This allows you to make modifications to your products as needed to ensure that your consumers get the exact solutions they want.

Information Technology

Advanced technologies can provide important data, including order information and consumer requests, in real time. Consider adding these types of advanced systems to your production line. With these, workers can create products and adjust any part as needed as soon as they receive the information.

Corporate Partners

Working with corporate partners will give your company an advantage over your competitors. Corporate partners can help you achieve even faster production and delivery times and help you reach new audiences and gain new customers in more locations.

Knowledge Culture

Knowledge culture is the most important element of agile manufacturing. This supports a workplace culture based on rapid change and adaptability. It states that businesses should provide all the tools and training necessary to help workers adapt to changes and accommodate to various types of consumer demands at a moment’s notice.

For more tips on how to improve your business’ performance, read CPV Manufacturing’s post on the Steps to the Ideal Lean Manufacturing System.

Industry 4.0: How to Evolve Your Manufacturing Business to Stay Relevant & Succeed

First there was the steam engine. Then the assembly line. Now the manufacturing industry is undergoing yet another industrial revolution with Industry 4.0.

Industry 4.0, or the Fourth Industrial Revolution, focuses on making manufacturing operations easier by adding technologies that integrate systems into one data network. This allows companies to receive information regarding system performance in real time so they can better control, monitor, and respond to performance issues.

Overall, more companies have adapted to the latest Industrial Revolution. But what does Industry 4.0 mean for your manufacturing company?

Benefits of Industry 4.0

manufacturing-industry Industry 4.0 is changing the manufacturing industry for the better. Companies adding advanced technologies to production lines have seen an increase in efficiency and a decrease in overall operation cost.

On top of that, technologies like Internet of Things (IoT) devices, sensors, and cloud computing provide workers with real-time information about how each system is performing. This helps companies spot early stages of system problems and repair them before any damage occurs. Plus these devices make it easier to track inventory and shipments.

Most importantly, advanced technologies can provide more extensive repairs and reduce manual labor. For example, if a worker can’t inspect or repair a certain part of a system because it’s too dangerous, these technologies can do it for them.

Challenges of Industry 4.0

Of course, like all major industrial changes, Industry 4.0 will face multiple challenges. The most prominent concern is data security. Connecting systems to one data network and using cloud computing software can make the overall production process easier, but these technologies are more susceptible to data breaches and hacking.

However, these technologies are new. With that said, we can expect to see advancements to combat security issues in the future.

car-manufacturing Industry 4.0 can also cause problems in job security for many workers. Since many of the technologies are fully automated, they may replace workers and jobs in the production line.

Above all, maintaining these technologies will be costly to any manufacturing company that uses them.

How to Evolve Your Business to Stay Relevant

According to Forbes, you simply have to implement technologies that provide interoperability, information transparency, technical assistance, and decentralized decision making to become an Industry 4.0 business.

Here are a few of them:

1. Interoperability

Interoperability refers to systems that are connected to one network and can relay information to each other. These technologies can include IoT devices, sensors, and system integration software.

2. Information Transparency

Cloud computing is an easy way to ensure information transparency for your company. Cloud systems house all performance, system, and operations data on one remote server. This allows you to pull up the details you need no matter where you are.

3. Technical Assistance

Technologies like robots and drones can provide technical assistance on the production floor to improve efficiency. They can also help companies perform inspections tasks that are too dangerous for humans to do.

4. Decentralized Decision Making

Robots and automated systems are now advanced enough to understand data and make decentralized decisions on their own. Using these technologies for your company will help to prevent bottlenecks and help everything run more smoothly.

Learn more about M2M technologies that are reshaping the manufacturing business.