Putting Industry 4.0 on the MACH map

“Many SMEs consider themselves too small to implement Industry 4.0, but their customers may come to expect it in future,” said Alastair Morris, sales director at Pryor. “The answer is to take small steps, and embrace the core of Industry 4.0 – which is data.”

Pryor’s advanced solutions can mark every component on a production line with a unique ID – for example, a barcode. Using Pryor’s traceability software, users can then track each component and capture valuable data throughout the manufacturing process.

The system has particular benefits for SMEs, because it can be applied to small-scale processes, such as batch production with an Excel spreadsheet. SMEs can use the captured data to better understand how their processes work – and take steps to improve. It may reveal that one product is always ‘waiting’ for an operation, for instance – which could be fixed by reconfiguring the process.

Pryor’s stand will be located in the quality and metrology area at MACH, highlighting its growing expertise in the field of manufacturing data intelligence, process improvement and quality control.

“Data capture, process control and component traceability are all possible with our unique part identification solution, which can save manufacturers money and time,” said Morris.

In addition, Pryor will showcase some of the marking technologies that underpin these systems, including on-the-fly laser marking and robotic Dot Peen marking.

Pryor’s precision, low stress Dot Peen marking – which is widely used to meet aerospace specifications – will be shown with the class-leading BenchDot machine. Alongside these will be an innovative, battery powered system that can be mounted in a CNC tool changer for in-process identification of parts.

Suitable for marking all sizes of components of unusual shapes and dimensions, it is ideal for marking alphanumeric identification and Data Matrix codes.

Pryor will also exhibit an ‘aerospace marking station’ at the show, suitable for precision Dot Peen marking of large aerospace components. The Type T system features a flexible table top that allows multiple component configurations and marking locations.

Visitors to MACH will find Pryor at Stand H18-410.