Sustainability in Manufacturing Using Robots

Sustainable manufacturing refers to the production of manufactured goods using cost-effect processes whilst promoting the reduction of negative environmental impacts, such as pollution and waste. Sustainable manufacturing also involves the conserving of energy and the prioritization of worker's safety. While there are a variety of means of achieving sustainable manufacturing, robotics and automated systems have made a significant impact in this sector.

 

For the most part, the general perception of factories and manufacturing plants is the idea that they play a major role in the releasing of CO₂ emissions with images of large plumes of black smoke billowing out of their chimneys coming to mind. While not entirely incorrect, many plants are turning to the generally unassuming planet-savers; robots, in order to reconfigure their manufacturing processes in favour of sustainable production lines and to increase their ESG ratings.

 

"Green robots" have already been making headway in the fight against global warming, taking part in climate change research efforts, influencing weather through cloud-seeding, and scientists presently developing waste-sorting bots to tackle ocean and waterway pollution.

 

Not to be outshined by their "on-the-scene" counterparts, sustainable manufacturing robots can actually be good for the environment.

 

How robots are being used in sustainable manufacturing

Many companies and manufacturing plants have turned to automation to improve product quality, productivity, worker safety, time, and costs. That being said, there is yet another reason for robotic automation - sustainable manufacturing.

 

Here are the most notable contributions from robotics:

 

Energy consumption

Contrary to initial assumptions, manufacturing robots consume less energy than humans (however, that’s not to minimize the crucial role of the manual workforce in manufacturing). Robots, unlike humans, are still capable of operating in little to no lighting and without air conditioning or heating. This significantly reduces energy consumption during the manufacturing process. Additionally, robots are now being developed with energy efficiency in mind for added energy savings. 

 

Waste reduction 

Waste is a pointed concern in the drive towards sustainability and industrial robots have excellent product quality, meaning materials are not wasted due to errors or faults during production. Precision, accuracy, and repeatability ensure that they only use what is needed and rework, although not 100% preventable, is greatly reduced. Ultimately, automation eliminates errors that lead to scrapped parts and require additional resources to replace waste.

 

Worker safety

Industrial manufacturing often requires the use of heavy machinery and in some instances puts workers' safety at risk. Robots aid and support workers in this environment and can take on dangerous or hazardous tasks, leaving them to focus on more human-centered work. This gives them an opportunity to take part in more enjoyable and rewarding tasks while the robots execute the tough jobs.

 

Longevity 

Robots can be in operation for many years, spanning decades even, when properly installed and maintained. The longevity of industrial robots means manufacturers are less likely to have to buy new equipment every few years or so. This reduces the disposal of machines, which prevents the discarding of heavy manufacturing equipment.

 

Versatility

Robots are incredibly versatile with the ability to automate multiple applications and extend their repertoires. They can be reconfigured or repurposed should production line processes change and have a greater adaptability, unlike fixed machines. The multitude of capabilities of robots reduce the amount of equipment manufacturers need and negates the need to throw one machine out in favor of a new (and costly), more appropriate one.

 

Reduction of carbon emissions 

Reducing carbon footprints greatly affects ESG scores and reduces ESG risk. Incorporating industrial robots in manufacturing processes can help manufacturers reduce their carbon footprint as robots are typically carbon-free and can actually replace many carbon-emitting machines.

 

Industrial robots and automation can play a significantly positive role in sustainable manufacturing. From increased productivity, little to no downtime, and energy efficiency, companies are opting for robots to reduce their carbon footprints and to make a discernible improvement on their ESG scores.

 

Yaskawa

We are a trusted partner and leader in the manufacturing of robotic solutions for palletizing and depalletizing. Our offering involves flexibility through 2D and 3D vision software as well as specialized software and tooling to enable customization for speed, safety, accuracy, and maximum productivity. We can also provide you with the necessary training to use your robot to its full potential. Contact us for more info.