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.
How Distillers Can Increase Optimization
December 19, 2018
The spirit industry is managing the growing demand by looking to model predictive control to help maximize throughput and efficiency.
Diversity is More Than a Recruitment Strategy
December 5, 2018
Diversity recruitment supports a business strategy driven by values, not numbers. The result is more inspired thinking and collaboration that leads to higher employee engagement.
Set Yourself Up for Success
December 3, 2018
How progressive OEMs can differentiate themselves by helping customers meet expectations for highly flexible manufacturing facilities.
Cyber Security Horror Stories Need a Happy Ending
November 30, 2018
Your plant may be ready for Industry 4.0. But is it cyber secure?
How Distilleries Can Maximize Throughput
November 28, 2018
How can distillers maximize throughput without sacrificing quality or tradition, while also minimizing alcohol loss?
Optimizing? How You Can Pick Up The Pace
November 28, 2018
Data – how it’s collected and used – will revolutionize manufacturing and process operations. What companies can do now to unlock additional levels of productivity.
The Hidden Threat Plant Managers Should Know About
November 26, 2018
When it comes to finding ways to reduce your acquisition costs, what risks are you really willing to take?
Use the Best Infrastructure to Get the Best Data
November 12, 2018
Operational intelligence and the subsequent analytics can only be really useful if you use the right smart devices coupled to the right software.
Protect Operations with Proactive Threat Hunting
November 7, 2018
Cyber threat detection isn’t enough. Learn how you can implement threat hunting to help stop infestations from impacting your beverage and food production.
AI Changes the Rules and Results for Automation
November 5, 2018
Stop thinking it's human or machine. The real power is human plus machine. AI augments and empowers human potential and leads to breakthrough innovation.
Don’t Overengineer: Get Quicker and Smarter
November 2, 2018
Single platform, single environment control and process solutions support what many of your end customers are deploying in their operations.
Is a Smarter Batch in Your Future?
October 29, 2018
Now life sciences manufacturers can harness the power of IIoT devices in new ways to maximize production efficiency and minimize process deviations.
Digitalized Gigafactories Meet EV Battery Demand
October 22, 2018
The next seismic change in autos is in AFVs. Find out how to use real-time information and analytics to keep up with demand for millions of new EV batteries annually.
Diversity and the Currency of Ideas
October 8, 2018
How can we measure the actual business value created in organisations by diversity amongst our workforces? Both quantitative and qualitatively it turns out.
The Extra Mile: How Our People Make a Difference
October 8, 2018
The opportunities to grow within a company are everywhere and often require an increased level of commitment from the employee – as well as support from the employer.
Ireland’s Darwinian Industry Challenge
October 8, 2018
Companies that are strongest in their sector must embrace change or risk being disrupted by more agile companies able to move with demand.
“Brassed Off”: Industry 4.0 vs. Automation
October 8, 2018
The social change associated with Industry 4.0 will not be the first brought about by increased levels of automation although it may be the first to fundamentally change the nature of work.
Expand Your Use of Digital Twin
October 3, 2018
Is the use of digital twin causing confusion in your organization? You’re not alone. Digital twin applies to three distinct phases. Clarify now and enjoy greater benefits later.
Boost Material Handling ROI via Wireless Solutions
September 24, 2018
Your automated material handling equipment can help you decrease costs and optimize resources – and wireless solutions can help boost their performance.
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.
--photograph_848w477h.jpg "Digital Representations a Roadmap for Improvement")
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.
--photograph_848w477h.jpg "New Collaborations Solve New Problems")
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.
--photograph_848w477h.jpg "Africa and the “Rise of the Machines”")
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.
--photograph_848w477h.jpg "Supporting Minority Engineers Reflects Priorities")
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.
--photograph_848w477h.jpg "Helping an Aging Facility Find New Life")
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.