SAIMC


SAIMC: From the office of the CEO

March 2024 SAIMC


Johan Maartens

The latest developments in manufacturing include the adoption of advanced robotics and automation technologies, the use of 3D printing for rapid prototyping and production, the implementation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices for real-time monitoring and optimisation of processes, and the integration of artificial intelligence for predictive maintenance and quality control. Additionally, sustainable manufacturing practices such as recycling and waste reduction are becoming more prevalent in the industry.

Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) play a crucial role in manufacturing by providing real-time data on production processes, tracking inventory, managing quality control, and optimising overall efficiency. MES helps manufacturers make informed decisions and improve productivity. MES can also integrate with other systems, such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and plant control systems, to streamline operations and improve overall productivity in manufacturing environments.

Data will play a significant role in manufacturing by enabling predictive maintenance, quality control, and process optimisation. Manufacturing companies are increasingly using data analytics to improve efficiency and reduce costs.

Ensuring accurate data involves various steps, such as data validation, data cleaning, and data quality checks. It is essential to have proper data governance practices in place, and to use reliable data sources. Additionally, implementing data validation rules and regularly monitoring data quality can help ensure the accuracy of the data used for analysis.

In an example, a data scientist analysed a manufacturer’s profit per employer, driven by the stringent labour practices placed on companies in South Africa. The manufacturer had various sites running different processes. It quickly became apparent that one of the facilities could remove a process line and replace it with one similar to a process line at one of the other plants. This resulted in more profit per employee, and the plant could now compete with the other plants within the company.

Do not forget to obtain CPD points in our official publication this month – and if you are doing ‘engineering work’, you have until 31 December 2024 to register.

Yours in automation

Johan Maartens


Credit(s)



Share this article:
Share via emailShare via LinkedInPrint this page

Further reading:

SAIMC User Advisory Council KS4I event
SAIMC Supplier Advisory Council SAIMC
The SAIMC User Advisory Council started 2025 with its first event in the ‘Knowlege Sharing 4 Industry’ event series on the 19th of March.

Read more...
Knowledge Sharing 4 Industry
SAIMC Supplier Advisory Council SAIMC
In proud partnership with Innomotics, SAIMC will be hosting the first Knowledge Sharing 4 Industry event for 2025.

Read more...
SAIMC: From the office of the CEO: Quo vadis South Africa
SAIMC SAIMC
In the nineteen hundreds, South Africa built the country while strict sanctions were in place. Control instrumentation and other computer equipment were given codes to ensure the most powerful equipment ...

Read more...
SAIMC: Johannesburg branch
SAIMC SAIMC
At the SAIMC Johannesburg technical evening held on 12 February, Jozua Joubert from TANDM gave a presentation on wireless condition monitoring.

Read more...
SAIMC: A tribute to two legends
SAIMC SAIMC
Change is never easy, especially when it means saying goodbye to two valued colleagues, John Owen-Ellis and Kevin McElroy.

Read more...
SAIMC: Durban branch
SAIMC SAIMC
The first SAIMC Durban management team meeting was held in early February, with secretary John Owen-Ellis leading the meeting for the last time before he retires.

Read more...
How to claim CPD points
SAIMC Supplier Advisory Council SAIMC
SAIMC makes it possible for you to claim CPD points for attending courses and technical meetings, or completing an online quiz on a SA Instrumentation & Control magazine.

Read more...
SAIMC: From the office of the CEO
SAIMC SAIMC
Visiting Mossel Bay in December was an absolute delight. The weather was fantastic, and we had family visiting, which made the experience even more enjoyable. We spent our days challenging the sand ...

Read more...
SAIMC: Johannesburg branch
SAIMC SAIMC
The annual general meeting for the Johannesburg Branch of the SAIMC took place on 15 January 2025.

Read more...
How to claim CPD points
SAIMC Supplier Advisory Council SAIMC
SAIMC makes it possible for you to claim CPD points for attending courses and technical meetings, or completing an online quiz on a SA Instrumentation & Control magazine.

Read more...