ABB's Energy Standardization: A Game Changer for Robotics

In a bold move that could redefine manufacturing efficiency, ABB Robotics is taking the lead in establishing the first-ever global standard for measuring the energy consumption of industrial robots.

This initiative, announced by Gianluca Brotto, head of sustainability at ABB Robotics, aims to enhance transparency in energy usage and support the shift toward sustainable manufacturing practices. As industries face increasing pressure to reduce their carbon footprints, this standard could become an essential tool for plant managers and operations directors assessing the cost efficiency of automation investments.

Currently, the lack of a standardized measurement system means that energy consumption data can vary significantly between manufacturers. This variability complicates comparisons and evaluations for plant managers who are trying to make informed decisions about capital expenditures. For example, without a universal benchmark, a CFO evaluating the ROI of a new robotic system may struggle to understand its energy efficiency relative to competitors.

ABB’s proposed standard promises to eliminate this ambiguity. By providing a consistent method for measuring energy consumption, companies can better assess the operational metrics of their robotic systems. This could be particularly advantageous for firms looking to implement automation where energy costs are a crucial part of the equation, especially in regions with soaring electricity prices.

Operational metrics show that energy consumption can account for up to 20% of a robot's total operational cost, particularly in high-volume environments. With energy prices fluctuating and sustainability becoming a key focus for many organizations, the ability to accurately measure and report energy use could lead to significant cost savings. For example, a company that retrofits its robots to align with the new standard could potentially see a reduction in energy expenses by as much as 15%, depending on their current usage patterns.

Moreover, this initiative comes at a critical time when many manufacturers are struggling with the complexities of integrating robotic systems into existing workflows. Integration teams report that understanding energy consumption is often an afterthought during deployment, which can lead to underperformance and unanticipated costs down the line. With a standardized measurement, companies will have clearer insights into how energy-efficient their automated systems are, allowing them to fine-tune their operations for maximum efficiency.

However, while the standardization of energy consumption metrics is a step forward, it is essential to consider the hidden costs that vendors often do not disclose. For instance, integrating new measurement systems may require additional training hours for floor workers to ensure accurate data collection and analysis. Companies should also be prepared for potential upgrades to existing infrastructure to accommodate new monitoring technologies, which can add to the initial capital outlay.

Importantly, this standardization won't eliminate the need for human workers altogether. Certain tasks still require nuanced human judgment and dexterity, particularly in complex assembly or quality control processes. Automation can improve cycle times and throughput, but the idea that robots will completely replace human labor remains a misconception. In fact, as companies embrace this new standard, they may find themselves needing a more skilled workforce to operate and maintain these advanced systems effectively.

Overall, ABB's initiative to standardize energy consumption measurement in industrial robotics marks a pivotal moment in the manufacturing sector. As companies increasingly prioritize sustainability and operational efficiency, this standard could facilitate better decision-making and drive the industry toward a more energy-aware future.

Sources

ABB Robotics leads global effort to standardize measurement of industrial robot energy consumption