Industries that are winning with robots

Automation and robotisation are playing a key role in shaping the future of industry. 

More and more economic sectors are recognising the benefits of implementing modern technologies that contribute to efficiency and competitiveness. But which industries have made a particularly strong bet on these solutions?

The statistics speak for themselves

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of industrial robot applications around the world. In 2022, as many as 3.5 million such machines were installed on a global scale. The automotive, metal manufacturing and electrical and electronics sectors are the leaders in this category.

Interesting data also comes from Poland – in 2021, our country could boast more than 20,000 industrial robots. That’s 63 robots per 10,000 workers in the industrial sector.

The warehouse sector is also not to be overlooked, with 1.2 million robots installed in 2022. Their biggest applications are in e-commerce, retail and manufacturing.

Industries vs. automation – why invest?

Which industries are best served by automation and robotisation?

1. Automotive: This is a sector that has been at the vanguard of robotisation for years. The machines excel at high-precision tasks such as welding or assembling vehicle components.
2. Electronics and technology: Manufacturing equipment requires precision. Therefore, robots that accurately assemble, test and package components are irreplaceable here.
3. Food industry: In a sector where hygiene and repeatability are key, robots ensure efficient packaging, sorting, and palletising.
4. Logistics and warehousing: Modern warehouses are true centers of technology. Robots efficiently manage inventory and sort and move goods.
5. Chemical industry: Thanks to robots, processes that would be dangerous for humans can be carried out under controlled and safe conditions.
6. Energy industry: The robots are great at hard-to-reach sites such as nuclear power plants and windmills, helping with inspection and maintenance.
7. Heavy industry: Where strength and resistance to harsh conditions are required, industrial robots are fast becoming an invaluable support.

Why invest in robots?

Wondering why so many industries are choosing to invest in robots? Here are the key reasons:

1. Lack of qualified labor: There is a shortage of skilled workers in many industries, and robots can fill the gap by performing tasks with the same, and often greater, precision.
2. Rising labor costs: Labor costs are steadily rising in many countries, making it likely that an investment in robots will pay off in the long run.
3. Efficiency and accuracy: Robots work quickly, accurately and continuously, resulting in greater productivity.
4. Safety: Robots can work in harsh and dangerous conditions, reducing the risk of workplace accidents.
5. Quality: Consistent, repeatable production quality is one of the main advantages of robotisation.
6. Flexibility: Modern robots can be easily reprogrammed, allowing for multifunctional use.
7. Saving resources: Automation can help reduce waste and optimise the use of raw materials.

Summary

Automation and robotisation are the answer to today’s industrial challenges. A shortage of qualified labor, rising labor costs, and the need to increase efficiency are just some of the reasons why industries around the world are increasingly investing boldly in modern technology. In an era of technological advances, we can expect to see further development and expansion of robots in more market sectors. APA Group’s automation and robotisation division can be a key partner in this transformation. Companies that have partnered with the Gliwice integrator’s engineers have experienced tangible benefits. The case studies include entities that have increased the productivity of production facilities by up to 40%, improved time efficiency by gaining several precious seconds at key stations in production lines, or applied robotic arms to processes where this was previously impossible due to the high degree of precision required. Innovations such as these open up new opportunities, making it easier for companies to overcome obstacles and achieve higher levels of productivity and competitiveness in the global industrial market.