May 2019

they are unfamiliar with the technology in a facility once they get a job. Retrofit Manufacturers do not invest in every relevant new technology, because they may find their current equipment works efficiently for their application and only replace it after a breakdown. At this point, manufacturers can use older, obsolete equipment to efficiently complete production. To improve productivity, many manufacturers are investing in internet connected devices to realise Industry 4.0. There is a common misconception that manufacturers must purchase newer equipment to do this, but older technology can also be made Industry 4.0 ready. Companies such as ABB, B&R, Bosch Rexroth and Red Lion have developed equipment that can be retrofitted to older machines to access data and connect the machine to the cloud. We are regularly asked for these kinds of devices by customers, alongside the obsolete parts that are the mainstay of our work. So, because obsolete technology plays 14 | Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk May 2019 Maintenance Matters Focus on: Training such a large part in Industry 4.0 and general maintenance, repair and operations work, students could come across the technology they later use in their professional lives. Businesses should work with schools to make sure students are learning the right skills, regardless of the technology they use. To secure the UK manufacturing sector, businesses, schools and the government must invest in education that inspires students and equips them with the necessary skills to work with key technologies. It may be difficult for the school curriculum to adapt to the rapid adoption of new equipment. However, it is important for students to handle as much technology as possible because what they learn during their education may still be applied to industry in the future. IF YOU’RE READING THIS, THEN SO ARE 30,000+ ENGINEERS IMAGINE THE IMPACT YOUR ADVERTISEMENT COULD HAVE Contact Damien Oxlee at PWE Tel: 01732 370342 Plant & Works Engineering www.pwemag.co.uk PROVIDING PRACTICAL ENGINEERING SKILLS TRAINING FOR INDUSTRY Technical Training Solutions Est 1980 t: 01634 731 470 e: tech.training@zen.co.uk www.technicaltrainingsolutions.co.uk