The industrial sector is hugely driven by demands for better productivity efficiency. If there’s ever been a technology to deliver that, it’s the Internet of Things (IoT). Industrial IoT platforms have many benefits, and they go far beyond the basic IoT perks of controlling building temperature and lights.
Most industrial buildings have the same needs as other buildings, such as temperature control, security systems, water, HVAC and lighting. But the difference is, industrial IoT platforms are also used for the control and management of other assets.
Here’s just some of the benefits of industrial IoT.
Productivity gains with IoT
Picture years gone by where everything in a factory was done and checked by hand. Gradually, technology evolved to allow machines to take over some tasks. Those machines still needed human control though. With industrial IoT, some of those machines can now be controlled remotely. IN some cases, their operation can even be completed automated.
When all processes in a manufacturing plant are controlled using IoT, less human hands are needed, and productivity goes through the roof. With easy identification of faults affecting production, downtime can also be minimised.
Improved safety is a win for everyone
Naturally, industrial businesses still need people around. We’re not yet at the point where machinery does absolutely everything seamlessly. However, for the humans you do have on deck, safety is the number one concern. Factories of years gone by were a hotspot for accidents and injury, and while safety protocols have improved there is still an element of risk.
IoT sensors are better equipped to identify performance flaws and potential risks. With better risk identification, more accidents can be avoided.
Control of remote assets
Remotely controlling multiple assets across various worksites seems like the stuff of science fiction, but it’s possible with IoT. Not only can you control assets and services, but you can even access all the necessary data to keep productivity at a maximum. For companies operating several factories or worksites, this type of control is like a gift from above.
The right data at the touch of a button
You don’t need to employ a team of data analysts to collect and interpret information from multiple services and assets. IoT platforms include easy to use dashboards that managers can customise for their needs. The important data required for daily operations is available easily and in real-time.
Data driven production is the new norm across all types of industry, and IoT technology makes it even easier. Access the right information at the right time, and make informed decisions with ease.
Save on costly repairs with preventative maintenance
Industrial equipment is usually extremely expensive. As technology advances and allows better productivity, so does the complexity of assets. This can sometimes mean more risk of faults that are even more difficult to fix without expert help. But what if you could predict when your assets needed attention, before large problems occurred.
IoT platforms alert you to assets and services that are degrading, giving you an opportunity to rectify the issue. Machinery, HVAC and other services all require preventative maintenance, but often it’s a lot of guesswork for when that should occur. Why not let the IoT tip you off first, so you can schedule maintenance when it’s really needed.
As you can see, the benefits of industrial IoT are profound. There’s nothing businesses want more than improved productivity, a stronger bottom line and better safety. IoT platforms deliver all of these results in spades.
