Rockwell Automation Blog

Technology and Industry-related Trends

The Rockwell Automation Blog helps our employees and guest bloggers share technology and industry-related trends with you. Be sure to sign up for bimonthly updates with the latest posts.

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Five Reasons Why You Should Go to Automation Fair

September 19, 2018

We're here to help you make the case for why your boss should let you go to Automation Fair, which, by the way, is November 14-15 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.

Regenerative Medicine: From Lab To Production

September 12, 2018

Breakthrough innovation in the life sciences industry will bring regenerative medicine technology to the masses.

Leading Through Change: The Leader Within

September 10, 2018

Digitisation is changing the world perhaps faster than at any time in history. Upskilling and diversity and inclusion is critical to success.

Mitigating Risk – Without Applying the Brakes

August 29, 2018

EV manufacturers are under pressure to expedite their launch schedules. Global program management paves the way for a successful EV launch – and smart manufacturing.

Reduce Risk in Your E-house Design

August 27, 2018

An intelligent packaged power system and the right partner can help you deliver smarter e-houses at a lower cost.

Find a Company Where Respect Flows Both Ways

August 20, 2018

What should you look for in a company? And when you find the right company, what should you do to stand out?

Train to Explain, Gain and Maintain

August 13, 2018

Look at training as a way to develop competency and drive greater efficiencies. Promote it internally and externally as an investment.

Disruptive Technology Expands Career Options

August 8, 2018

Internships in artificial intelligence and machine learning complement college studies to prepare students for careers in IIoT.

The New Security Norm in OT

August 1, 2018

As technology and connectivity advance, industrial control system engineers face new security issues.

Create Smarter Electrical Control Systems

July 30, 2018

System integrators can bring more intelligence to electrical control systems with intelligent packaged power.

Visualization Technologies Help Run Safe Processes

July 23, 2018

Visualization technologies — mixed reality, virtual and augmented reality — can enhance worker capabilities and create safer, more productive processes.

On the Move to Flexible Medical Device Production

July 16, 2018

More OEMs are choosing independent cart technology to deliver flexible, high volume machines for the disposable medical device market. The results are impressive.

Reduce Variability to Improve Capacity and Quality

July 9, 2018

Prescriptive analytics can produce immediate ROI. Model Predictive Control stabilizes your processes and gets you closer to your targets.

It’s a Team Game

July 2, 2018

Maybe it is a bit of a cliché to say that business is a team-game, but my recent experiences as sales director – Gulf & NE at Rockwell Automation, have shown me just how important it is.

Reimagining Skills Development

July 2, 2018

Technologies like IoT and AR are revolutionizing training around the world. Barry Elliott discusses how we could scale these for broader skills development.

Turning Data into Business Advantage

July 2, 2018

There is no magic bullet for turning data into business advantage. To thrive in the global digital industry UK enterprises must harness the power of the data they produce.

Get More From Your Electrical Control System

June 27, 2018

Unifying your electrical and process control systems into one digital infrastructure can give you greater plant-wide visibility and boost productivity.

In Response To Robots

June 25, 2018

Productivity improvements through technology advances will not result in the demise of manufacturing jobs. Quite the opposite.

Protect Yourself With Good Cyber Hygiene Practices

June 22, 2018

For all the benefits that smart manufacturing can offer, it also requires a more comprehensive approach to security. Start with these three basic steps.

Digital Representations Drive Bottom-Line Results

June 18, 2018

The two foundations of a digital transformation — the digital twin and the digital thread — offer new ways to trial practices, processes, and product concepts in a virtual environment.

Set Your Goals and Make the Right Decision

June 13, 2018

With many graduate training programmes available for those entering the workforce, consider these key learnings.

Is Your Machine Built for Thin Clients?

June 11, 2018

More manufacturers are adopting a simpler centralized information management paradigm, and they expect machines to conform.

Make Your Digital Transformation Effective

June 11, 2018

There are pitfalls of going into a digital transformation effort before assessing the bigger picture first.

What Will Smart Factories Look Like in 20 Years?

June 8, 2018

See how today’s new technologies will change how we design, manage and staff operations in a smart factory.

Single-Use Solutions Defy Economies of Scale

June 6, 2018

Companies are demanding more agile and flexible manufacturing practices in order to meet an industry drive towards more personalised medicines.

Learning From TÜV-Certified Machine Safety Experts

May 28, 2018

TÜV Rheinland-certified machinery functional safety experts earn one of the most rigorous accreditations for industrial safety professionals. Hear tips from recently certified pros.

Digital Representations a Roadmap for Improvement

May 25, 2018

The digital twin and digital thread create a virtual foundation for experimentation and improvement within The Connected Enterprise.

New Collaborations Solve New Problems

May 23, 2018

Advances in technology and connectivity foster new levels of innovation and collaboration between industry and academia. The benefactors: our next-gen workforce.

Sister Envy: The Unfortunate Plight of DC Drives

May 21, 2018

Marcia, Marcia, Marcia. Remember how Jan Brady felt when her big sister got all the attention? The DC drive is often the overlooked sibling on the plant floor.

Responding to Changing Consumer Trends

May 18, 2018

The drive for digitalization is accelerating the need for digital manufacturing plants that offer the highest flexibility, combined with reduced production costs.

A New Driving Force: Automotive “Electric Dreams”

May 16, 2018

Market drivers and new technology are accelerating electric vehicle demand. To keep up, carmakers must adopt a more connected, data-intensive approach.

Make Skid Integration Smart from the Start

May 14, 2018

Life sciences companies that rely on multiple OEMs can help mitigate skid integration challenges with upfront planning – and a modern DCS.

Migrating Pharmaceutical Processes

May 11, 2018

Alfasigma decided to migrate its pharmaceutical production solution, but needed to find a suitable supplier.

Digital Twins: Creating Smarter Products On Time

May 9, 2018

To curb the increasing risks of advanced machine design, digital twins help engineers make informed design decisions that won’t break the budget.

Five Tips for Leaders Leading Through Change

May 7, 2018

The fourth industrial revolution is creating an era of exponential change. Here are five tips for leaders to help them guide their companies through it.

Cutting Costs with Contactors

May 2, 2018

Modern contactors are designed to offer cost savings that you should be considering when trying to cut cost for your panel.

How to Attack an Obsolescence Backlog

April 30, 2018

Now mining companies can deploy strategies that bolster the reliability of existing equipment – and take cost-effective steps toward modernization.

Don’t Fear Disruption: Change Propels Industry

April 23, 2018

Industrial disruptions are changing the way we do business. From big data to blockchain, the decisions you make now will influence your business success for years.

AI Can Improve Your Equipment Maintenance Strategy

April 18, 2018

Pipeline companies around the world are already taking advantage of artificial intelligence to improve operations. Do you have the information you need to stay competitive?

Digitalizing the Enterprise for Security

April 16, 2018

A digital transformation brings enhanced network and information security to manufacturers as well as performance improvements.

Scalable Analytics Delivers Value from IIoT

April 13, 2018

Users can now create value and actionable information from IIoT data sources, without the intervention of a data scientist.

Stemming the Next Pandemic

April 11, 2018

At the iBio plant in College Station, Texas, they are leveraging the Rockwell Automation PlantPAx DCS to make vaccine grade proteins from living plants.

Africa and the “Rise of the Machines”

April 9, 2018

Can digital technologies unlock new value in overcoming skills and infrastructure challenges in Africa?

Global Localisation: Vision 2030

April 9, 2018

Global localisation will benefit the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 strategy.

UK Industrial Businesses: Don’t Just Grow, Improve

April 9, 2018

What are the misconceptions around IIoT adoption for micro, small and medium sized enterprises in the UK?

Contain Security Threats With Network Segmentation

April 4, 2018

An open and unsegmented network is a gift to cyber attackers. By using network segmentation, you can restrict their access and limit potential damage.

Collaborative Applications: What You Need to Know

April 2, 2018

The way people and machinery interact in automotive plants is fundamentally changing. Collaborative technology makes functional safety more critical than ever.

Blockchain Can Transform Your Supply Chain

March 28, 2018

Blockchain has the potential to transform the supply chain with a secure and unchangeable record that can be viewed and verified by every stakeholder, at any time.

Inspiring Our Future Innovators

March 28, 2018

Engineers in every industry, from every discipline, are coming together for one purpose: to share their enthusiasm for engineering and make a difference in a young person's life.

When Did You Think of Your Motor Control Centres?

March 28, 2018

Motor Control Centres (MCCs) power just about every manufacturing facility in the world, but do these unsung heroes get the attention they deserve? And what is the cost of MCC failure?

Digitalizing the Enterprise

March 26, 2018

Many manufacturers are using digitalization to improve their operations, tap into new sources of revenue and boost profitability.

Choosing the Right Vendor for Your Repair

March 21, 2018

Consider these key things when deciding to repair your industrial automation equipment.

Converting Traditional Starters to Soft Starters

March 19, 2018

Using soft starters can be an easy way to reduce waste in your operation by minimizing the time and expense associated with servicing the equipment.

Connectivity and Digitization Transform Mining

March 14, 2018

Three insights into the future of mining based on broad market trends: data, analytics and safety and security.

Supermarket Insights Into F&B Manufacturing

March 12, 2018

How do you shop in a supermarket? Have you noticed how digitisation of manufacturing is changing the experience?

Managing Energy Use in Pipeline Operations

March 7, 2018

Energy is the largest operating cost for pipeline companies. Anything that can be done to reduce energy usage while maintaining throughput can directly impact your bottom line.

Holistic Approach for Power Plant Cyber Security

March 5, 2018

Follow these three key considerations for a holistic approach to cyber security in your power generation systems.

Is Your Smart Machine Plug-and-Play?

February 28, 2018

Smart machines help transform data into knowledge. For OEMs, easy machine integration is pivotal to success. Here’s what to consider before you start.

Chemical Producers: There’s a New Plant in Town

February 26, 2018

By prioritizing investments around smarter technologies, a connected chemical plant can help you monitor and improve production performance.

Supporting Minority Engineers Reflects Priorities

February 23, 2018

For new graduates and seasoned professionals, being among the minority can make job searching difficult. Questions to ask to pick the right company.

Innovations Improve Drilling Efficiency

February 21, 2018

Nabors Drilling is using Rockwell Automation technology to power innovative services, software and rigs.

Real-Time Insights Deliver Revolutionary Results

February 19, 2018

Digital transformation is driving improved productivity, quality, compliance, and profitability for manufacturers.

Increase Your Value with Certified Training

February 16, 2018

Specifically designed coursework can increase your value in the workforce and improve opportunities for hire or advancement.

The Key to Your Digital Transformation

February 14, 2018

As IIoT continues to drive growth, successful power generation operations will need to reconsider information and control methodologies, worker training and technology implementation.

Does Your Company Value Diversity and Inclusion?

February 12, 2018

When building your career, remember these three things: diversity and inclusion matter. Find leaders who listen (and act). Be patient and empathic.

STEM is Saving Lives

February 7, 2018

STEM is changing, and saving, lives. Bringing together invention and production is giving people new hope.

Why Gender Balance in Industry Matters to Me

February 5, 2018

Industry faces a big challenge to improve gender diversity. A challenge that leaders of industry must accept at a personal level, and companies at a company-culture level.

Helping an Aging Facility Find New Life

January 31, 2018

Aging systems at the Pettit National Ice Center meant skyrocketing energy costs. An upgrade would improve sustainability and ice conditions.

My Generation! Skills for IIoT Adoption

January 31, 2018

As we strive to unlock the power of IIoT, it’s important to unlock the potential of what we already have.

You Are as Strong as Your Weakest Link

January 29, 2018

To fully realize the benefits of smart manufacturing we must harmonize standards. It’s how we will address both interoperability and cybersecurity.

Driving on the Edge

January 24, 2018

Scalable analytics platform delivers insights tire manufacturers need to improve quality, performance and productivity – from the edge to the cloud.

Suffering from Data Overload? There’s a Cure

January 22, 2018

Pharmaceutical plants generate a staggering amount of data. See how scalable analytics can cut through clutter to accelerate innovation and improve quality assurance.

My Career in Automation: A Numbers Game

January 15, 2018

What defines Rockwell Automation for me? Our corporate ethics culture and customer intimacy.

UK Industry: Keep Calm and Carry On

January 15, 2018

In 2017, industry in the UK was exploring the potential of the Industrial Internet of Things. Now it is implementing it.

Ten Worker Safety and Productivity Tips for 2018

January 10, 2018

As we begin the new year, we’ve compiled a list of ten tips to help you improve safety and productivity.

Migrate or Modernize? How to Decide

January 8, 2018

If your plant is aging, you have a choice: migrate specific equipment, or modernize to realize the value of new technologies.

Our Top 10 Most Popular Blog Posts in 2017

January 1, 2018

Our most popular blogs in 2017 were about drives, Logix, sensors, smart manufacturing and our company’s culture of diversity and inclusion.

Get Smarter Automotive Manufacturing Faster

December 20, 2017

Scalable analytics closes the loop between big data and the plant floor to speed the impact of smart devices.

Creating a Modernization Plan That Works for You

December 18, 2017

Modernization can help companies increase output and productivity of their operations.

What’s Your Integration Strategy?

December 13, 2017

To create a “facility of the future” that pays dividends for years to come, biotech companies must first take a close look at automation and integration strategies.

Proactive Maintenance Can Help Fuel Profitability

December 11, 2017

Managing the maintenance tasks through specialized software and other tools can help reduce manual entry of device readings, and share vital information with other areas of production.

Design Your Safety System for Improved Uptime

December 6, 2017

Improving your lockout procedures by just one minute can save you $2.8 million annually. Find out how.

Prevent Downtime With Just Your Voice

December 4, 2017

Companies driven by fast-changing consumer demands soon won’t have a choice about connectivity; it will be essential to stay competitive.

Hour of Code: It’s for Everyone. Join Us

December 3, 2017

Join the Hour of Code and help a student experience the thrill of computer science. You don’t need to be an expert.

We Don’t Talk Product at Our Customer Centre

November 29, 2017

There is an often overlooked distinction between technology and innovation. True innovation is about much more than technology.

The Safe, Connected Enterprise

November 27, 2017

The Connected Enterprise helps manufacturers monitor and improve safety while boosting plant productivity.

Are You Measuring OEE?

November 22, 2017

Are you procrastinating when it comes to modernization? You are risking lost opportunity for greater productivity.

Manufacturing Finds Its Swagger

November 15, 2017

The lines between engineering disciplines blur in the fourth industrial revolution. New careers require new ways of looking at manufacturing. Find the right career fit.

What Does the IIoT Workforce Look Like?

November 13, 2017

For the future workforce, the ability to gain knowledge will be more important than knowledge itself.

Three Ways You Can Save With Paperless Operation

November 10, 2017

Modern MES can simplify quality challenges. Let’s take a look at how you can save in three areas: labor/people costs, quality/recall costs and downtime.

Women in FIRST: Inspiring Young Minds

November 8, 2017

We need women to get involved with FIRST so this generation of students is inspired to pursue STEM careers and be the next generation’s mentors, coaches, judges and referees.

Are You an Employer of Choice in the Digital Era?

November 6, 2017

Is your most vital asset, your staff, helping you enter the digital era? Here are three recommendations for becoming an employer of choice for tomorrow’s talent.

Modernize So You Can Know More – and Do More

October 30, 2017

Over the next five years nearly a third of maintenance staff will retire. The next generation expects a dashboard experience. Are you prepared?

Is Your Safety System’s Lifecycle Healthy?

October 25, 2017

Understanding and implementing a safety architecture, performance levels, integrity levels and reaction time calculations can improve the health of your safety system.

IIoT on the Plant Floor? There’s an App for That

October 23, 2017

Take a look at how commercial apps are revolutionising teamwork in industry and how young workers needed to meet the skills gap are changing industry from the inside.