KMF Metals

The impact of Industry 4.0 on sheet metal fabrication

What is Industry 4.0?

Industry 4.0 is also referred to as the Fourth Industrial Revolution. It is the era of digital revolution that follows the previous industrial revolutions of our time.

Industry 4.0 acknowledges the introduction of smart technologies, data and AI in the workplace to transform output and processes.

The employment of smart machines and smart factories is overarched by the domination of AI, creating an environment of transformative change.

Industry 4.0 machinery allows organisations to retain values and learn from process continual improvement. Reducing reliance on humans to perform tasks so that the human workforce can focus their efforts on value-added tasks and upskilling, rather than performing manufacturing processes.

The evolution of robotics in manufacturing also allows for automated maintenance across operations, saving time and resource whilst highlighting future maintenance requirements.

How is it relevant to the fabrication of sheet metal?

The digital transformation of manufacturing allows for speed, productivity, precision, and tailoring in sheet metal manufacturing. It is possible to produce a truly bespoke product in less time than ever before.

Automation investment programmes are required to ensure that sheet metal manufacturing is future–proofed. Here at KMF, we have invested in robotics and automation for the smart, advanced manufacturing technologies required for our processes.

The strategic use of time, resources and people allows for the optimisation of our sheet metal manufacturing operations, reducing waste and improving efficiencies. Automation also reduces errors throughout the production process and streamlines workflows.

How KMF is embracing Industry 4.0?

KMF understands the importance of staying ahead of the curve. That’s why we’ve made a significant investment in Industry 4.0 technologies, utilising cutting-edge automated machinery in our sheet metal operations.

The shift towards smart factories has driven KMF to invest over £11 million in state-of-the-art automated machinery. This includes robotic welding bays, automated powder coating booths, state-of-the-art Trumpf TruPunch punching machines, as well as automated bending cells, and our latest purchase of a stud welding machine.

KMF’s investment doesn’t stop there. We have on going plans to expand our portfolio of automated and robotic equipment, ensuring we consistently deliver the highest quality products for our customers across diverse industries.

What are the benefits to our customers?

Our strategic investment strategy has transformed our sheet metal operations, enabling us to deliver unparalleled precision, efficiency, and quality, 24/7. KMF customers’ benefit from faster turnaround times, reduced costs, and superior products.

By acting with agility, we can offer a much more time-efficient and cost-effective service when fabricating sheet metal.

We can service repeat orders using a much more streamlined approach than previously possible. Additionally, collecting data from our factory floor via AI and smart technology allows us to deliver insights to our team and create efficiencies.

Overall, our processes are quicker and more effective, producing a customised product with greater efficiencies, less waste and reduced costs.

Contact Our Sales Team

Do you want to increase the strength of your manufacturing process? Get in touch with our experts...