Digitalization has Changed the Future of Machine Tool Industry

#Machinetool #AVTEC #Digitalization

K Ganesan, Plant Head - Chennai & Hosur Operations, AVTEC ( CK Birla Group)

A B.Tech in Engg . Technology from BITS , Pilani, Mr. K Ganesan has a rich experience of 32 years in manufacturing industries. His expertise lies in Lean manufacturing, capacity and resource planning, OEE, analysis and improvement, layout improvement, and Creating Process driven Quality systems. Mr. Ganesan is currently working as Plant Head - Chennai & Hosur Operations, at AVTEC ( CK Birla Group).

Machine tool industry has emerged in the new avatar courtesy of Digitalization and Industry 4.0. One of the oldest and traditional industries, the machine tool industry has walked many miles to achieve the current status. stry.

In the coming years, digitalization will completely transform the Machine tool industry and the merger of these dynamic elements will result in process efficiency and productivity. Although the industry is flooded with numerous solutions, it is essential to identify the space, which requires transformation and adopt solutions accordingly. The industry is witnessing innovative technological solutions in every aspect of the processes.

The sensor integration, utilization of artificial intelligence (AI), and the integration of sophisticated simulation features, enables the advancements in machine performance and overall equipment effectiveness (OEE). Additionally, the advanced sensors and modern ways of communication, controlling, and monitoring systems allows to create new opportunities for smart services and new business models in the machine tool market. The digitally enhanced services are about to become part of each OEM’s portfolio in the future.

Along with various innovative technologies, the market is laden with new trends, which will help to boost the machine tool industry. In the current digital age, mass customization, reduced time-to-consumer, error proofing using latest technologies are a few trends that require enhanced machine flexibility. It is essential to comprehend the new machines and utilize them to achieve maximum efficiency. Additionally, core aspects such as price, usability, longevity, process speed, quality, and greater machine flexibility are few characteristics of new machines.

Currently, data security, open communication interfaces, new information & communication technology (ICT) are essential elements to integrate digital applications and prominent automation solutions. This process will help to transform the machine tools into user friendly tools in the future.

About AVTEC (CK Birla Group)

AVTEC is one of the largest independent manufacturers of powertrain and precision-engineered products in India. It is a part of CK Birla Group – a leading global business house, with over 25,000 employees and a combined turnover of US $2.0 billion.

With years of experience in manufacturing, AVTEC delivers competency across the entire value chain of design & manufacture of engines; transmissions and high precision components like cylinder heads, cylinder blocks, crank shafts, cam shafts, cam rods and transmission gears for Automotive, Off-Highway, Defence, Agriculture and Railway industry, in areas of both proprietary products and contract manufacturing. The company serves some of the best-known domestic and global Automotive and Off-Highway companies, including global OEMs such as Allison, BEML, Caterpillar, Daimler, Ford, ISUZU , PSA , Punch Powertrain, Renault-Nissan, Tata-Jaguar and several other established brands.

AVTEC’s domestic units comprise of an in-house tech centre in Hosur, R&D facilities in Hosur and Pithampur, and state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Hosur, Chennai, and Pithampur. All its facilities are IATF 16949 and ISO 14001 certified, equipped with high-tech machinery, and manned by experienced personnel.

With its global R&D and manufacturing footprint which includes face gear and innovative drive systems through the Switzerland-based subsidiary ASSAG, AVTEC aspires to reinforce its commitment to customers as a 'one-stop-shop' for Powertrain and Precision Engineered Products, across the globe.

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