ABB has launched an online return on investment calculator to help UK small to medium size enterprises (SMEs) discover the cost and productivity benefits offered by industrial robots. Available from the ABB website, the calculator demonstrates how companies can often recoup their outlay on robots within just two years through enhanced levels of performance and competitiveness.
Users can select from a choice of industrial applications including Arc Welding; Machine Tending; Plastic Injection Moulding; Picking, Packing and Palletizing. By entering data about the current levels of manpower employed in these processes, the number of hours worked and the hourly rate per worker, the user can then see how much they could be saving by investing in robot based automation.
The calculator also includes links to the various robot options available, plus a contact form for those wanting to find out more about how they could best introduce robotic technology to their processes.
The launch of the calculator marks the latest step in ABB’s 10 good reasons to invest in robotics campaign, which aims to encourage UK manufacturers to embrace robotic technology.
"With reports highlighting plant closures and a decline in manufacturing orders, there seems to be a general uncertainty about manufactured goods in the UK which affects the willingness of manufacturers to make longer term investments," says Nigel Platt, Sales and Marketing Manager for ABB Robotics in the UK.
"In particular, many UK businesses wrongly perceive robots as being too expensive to purchase and operate. Our ROI calculator aims to overcome this perception by showing how robotic technology can deliver long term consistent performance with minimal overheads, helping companies to better predict factors, such as cost of production, turnaround times, output levels and product quality."
Nigel continues, "The ROI calculator demonstrates to UK businesses that by introducing an automated production process companies can save money and improve productivity. We look forward to hearing from businesses who want to explore the benefits and opportunities of investing in our technology."
Offering a cost-effective alternative to buying a new robot, manufacturers who want to avoid the larger capital investment can consider the choice of tailored leasing options, businesses can buy or lease ABB robots to reduce investment and minimise the commitment for long-term returns.