The latest developments in manufacturing include the adoption of advanced robotics and automation technologies, the use of 3D printing for rapid prototyping and production, the implementation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices for real-time monitoring and optimisation of processes, and the integration of artificial intelligence for predictive maintenance and quality control. Additionally, sustainable manufacturing practices such as recycling and waste reduction are becoming more prevalent in the industry.
Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) play a crucial role in manufacturing by providing real-time data on production processes, tracking inventory, managing quality control, and optimising overall efficiency. MES helps manufacturers make informed decisions and improve productivity. MES can also integrate with other systems, such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and plant control systems, to streamline operations and improve overall productivity in manufacturing environments.
Data will play a significant role in manufacturing by enabling predictive maintenance, quality control, and process optimisation. Manufacturing companies are increasingly using data analytics to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Ensuring accurate data involves various steps, such as data validation, data cleaning, and data quality checks. It is essential to have proper data governance practices in place, and to use reliable data sources. Additionally, implementing data validation rules and regularly monitoring data quality can help ensure the accuracy of the data used for analysis.
In an example, a data scientist analysed a manufacturer’s profit per employer, driven by the stringent labour practices placed on companies in South Africa. The manufacturer had various sites running different processes. It quickly became apparent that one of the facilities could remove a process line and replace it with one similar to a process line at one of the other plants. This resulted in more profit per employee, and the plant could now compete with the other plants within the company.
Do not forget to obtain CPD points in our official publication this month – and if you are doing ‘engineering work’, you have until 31 December 2024 to register.
International robotics conference streams live to Africa
SAIMC
The SAIMC hosted five live-stream viewing events across South Africa for the IEEE International Conference of Robotics and Automation in Vienna, bringing global robotics research and technology directly to local industry and academia.
Read more...From the office of the CEO: Introduction to GRIP SAIMC
SAIMC
Industry has long been concerned about graduates who have no understanding of the modern equipment they will face in industry. This has triggered an investigation into the possibility of creating a facility whereby graduates register with the SAIMC and rotate through all the vendors to obtain experience on modern equipment.
Read more...SAIMC: Durban branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Durban Branch hosted a technology meeting featuring a presentation by Abacus Automation on the practical role of AI in industrial automation, drawing considerable interest from attendees.
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
Instrotech recently hosted a technical presentation on load cell technology and applications at the SAIMC Johannesburg Technology Evening, presented by Trevor Salzwedel. The session covered load cell fundamentals, selection and installation, mechanical considerations and calibration methods.
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg Golf Day SAIMC
SAIMC
The SAIMC Johannesburg Golf Day on 22 May 2026 brought together 16 four-balls for a day of golf, networking and fundraising, with generous support from sponsors across the instrumentation and control sector.
Read more...SAIMC: Johannesburg branch SAIMC
SAIMC
The Johannesburg Branch had the privilege of being hosted by Phoenix Contact for our technology event in May. Shamil Surbun, BU manager for Automation, presented a CPD-accredited session on ‘From Sensor to Cloud: How SPE and APL Are Transforming Industrial Connectivity’.
Read more...From the office of the CEO: Power Hour goes national SAIMC
SAIMC
South Africa’s automation, control, mechatronics and computer engineering community is changing fast, and the SAIMC is changing with it. I am excited to announce a new national initiative that will reshape how we deliver technical knowledge, strengthen branch identity and bring our community together like never before.
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