Examining the must-have capabilities of a linear motion solution for machine builders that can deliver value to their own business, as well as the end user. By Jocelyn Golding, OEM Industrial SI & IAD Channel Manager, Schneider Electric
Linear motion systems are the foundation of countless industrial applications. Almost every production line across every sector will use a linear motion solution at some point in its process. Machine builders, tasked with introducing new assets or establishing new lines from scratch, have a unique opportunity to deliver exceptional value to their clients through their selection and deployment of linear motion applications. And by closely collaborating with a supplier which provides comprehensive solutions and ensures smooth integration with other industrial assets, they can also benefit from improved efficiency in their own operations.
Choosing the right partner then, is vital, but what sort of capabilities should machine builders be looking for in a vendor?
Save time, add value
The right supplier should have an extensive range of products that can be simply and conveniently brought together to meet the exact needs of the end user. With the right supplier, the machine builder has a one stop shop for heavy or light load needs, moving or fixed axis, and accompanying robotics like pick and place solutions, which simplifies the purchase and commissioning journey as well as offering much simpler onward servicing and replacements for the machine. At Schneider Electric we take this one step further for OEMs with the functional and fully supported MySchneider portal. The personalised digital experience brings together all facets of robotics and automation products, both inside and outside linear motion, offering personalised support for OEMs alongside training courses leading to even more value that can be offered to the end user.
Seamless integration
OEMs work across a huge range of sectors, and in some cases customer facilities will include assets from multiple suppliers, therefore machine builders must have the flexibility to integrate. Working closely with Schneider Electric means OEMs can make use of the EcoStruxure Platform, a key enabler of universal automation. OEMs can then easily integrate and manage different automation components, ensuring their linear motion solutions meet the need of the end user now, and in the future. Whether an OEM is implementing linear motion in an existing facility or creating a new line from scratch, integration across any amount of hardware will be seamless.
Enhanced machine performance
While saving time and money improves an OEM’s business and furthers the value they can offer to customers; the most important element of any delivered asset is machine performance. Selecting a reliable linear motion supplier enhances the performance of any asset through improved precision, accuracy, and efficiency. By working closely with Schneider Electric at each stage of the commissioning process, OEMs can fine-tune the desired performance of the asset. In fact, the right linear motion solution offers increased productivity, reduced downtime, and improved maintenance, through reduced wear and tear, smooth motion, reduced friction, and even operator safety. Partnership with Schneider Electric enables these capabilities to be in-built into a machine builder’s product from the commissioning stage. End users receive the best possible asset while OEMs can meet any linear motion need with peace of mind it will be supported by the supplier themselves.
Energy efficiency
Energy efficiency isn’t solely an OEM concern; it’s vital for every industry player, regardless of size, to prioritise sustainability in their operations. The choice of linear motion supplier can significantly influence this. Schneider Electric’s linear motion solutions boast low energy consumption, leveraging cutting-edge technologies that minimal power usage for motion. These top-tier solutions not only have an extended lifespan but also demand less maintenance due to having fewer mechanical components than traditional mechanical motion solutions. Moreover, Schneider Electric ensures accuracy and precision in its linear motion, which translates to reduced raw material wastage and consistent product quality. Collectively, these factors contribute to an energy-efficient and waste-free facility, underscoring the crucial role an OEM’s choice in linear motion plays in overall end user sustainability.
Selection of a linear motion solution is a critical decision for machine builders. It is a pivotal choice that can deliver value throughout the end user and OEM’s business, both saving time, energy, and money with a solution that will deliver the reliability and accuracy now and for years to come. By adding Schneider Electric as a partner, OEMs know they have a linear motion solution that can meet the needs of any customer, in any sector, regardless of the assets already in use.
OEMs looking to solve linear motion challenges and save valuable time for more asset commissioning should enquire about the Schneider Electric OEM partner programme.
