Great advancements in manufacturing technology have changed the chemical industry’s landscape over the past several decades. And as each year passes, more and more advancements are being made that continue to improve both efficiencies. And the performance of this field. Here are seven manufacturing technologies that have helped transform the chemical industry over the years.
7 manufacturing technologies that have helped transform the chemical industry
From combustion and process engineering to biotechnology and pollution control, these are some of the industry’s most prominent advancements. The past few decades have been anything but stagnant for chemical manufacturing. This list highlights seven breakthrough technologies. Some new, some already ingrained in commercial applications. That is currently changing how we approach everything from combustion and process engineering to biotechnology and pollution control.
As cutting-edge research and innovative thinking forge ahead, these are just a few of many more innovations on their way. Chemical production is (and will continue to be) an ever-evolving industry with a variety of needs—and manufacturers need partners capable of developing unique solutions to meet those needs. Whether you design, develop or deliver chemical products or services within your own organization or through your clients’ projects, understanding what trends will influence these next couple of years is critical to remaining competitive. What follows are just a few of many such developments currently underway:
1: Combustion technologies continue to evolve As they make improvements to existing designs and seek out entirely new avenues for improvement, combustion engineers are paving new roads with every update. With chemistries becoming increasingly complex—and environmental regulations growing more stringent each year—further progress in controlling emissions can only benefit both consumers and industry professionals alike. Today, there are immense opportunities for further modernization as researchers find ways to utilize alternative energy sources while continuing to ensure clean burning across all types of machinery.
2: Improved chemical recovery methods Emissions prevention isn’t something that can be handled only at origin; chemical waste management plays a key role throughout every step of processing and refinement. Chemicals like chlorine gas, hydrogen sulfide, and ammonia are extremely hazardous. If released into our air or water supply—the same air and water supply that humans depend on daily. So it should come as no surprise that recycling strategies have become a major focus area for chemical producers in recent years.
Companies like Thomas Swan & Co.—one of Europe’s leading suppliers of industrial gases—have made extensive strides toward greener chemical manufacturing, serving as excellent examples for industries everywhere looking to reduce their impact on local ecosystems. In addition to lessening our reliance on finite resources, reusing materials ultimately reduce carbon dioxide emission levels compared to conventional forms of production and consumption – another important factor when discussing safety implications.
3: Supercritical CO2 extraction As consumer and industrial demand for plant-based oils continues to grow, finding more efficient means of production will help meet those demands. Supercritical fluid extraction allows for a better separation of oil from the material than traditional organic solvents can provide. It’s no wonder, then, that supercritical fluid extraction is one of 2019’s most exciting new production technologies. Especially as it pertains to essential oils, a sector in which consumers are quick to snap up high-quality organic goods—and especially those that are environmentally friendly.
4: Bioplastics The use of bioplastics—plastics produced from renewable resources rather than fossil fuels—is skyrocketing. Currently, about 35% of plastics are bioplastics. That number is expected to continue climbing in the coming years as more and more companies discover how cost-effective (and safe) bioplastics can be for a variety of applications, from food storage containers to medical devices and even bottles for water.
5: 5G connectivity Internet speeds are on track to increase exponentially with new networks. A shift that will undoubtedly have significant impacts on industrial operations—and consumers, too. Soon, we may see an entirely new world of possibilities unfold. What could that mean for manufacturing? Most importantly, it could mean an increased rate of innovation as things like artificial intelligence (AI) and smart technologies continue to rapidly improve. And to test them in real-world situations before finalizing a product. Already, AI is capable of producing game-changing breakthroughs in everything from machine learning algorithms to genetic engineering and more. Combining that capacity with faster internet will only make AI’s potential for a good bigger and more accessible.
6: Virtual and augmented reality Emerging technologies in both VR (virtual reality) and AR (augmented reality) are giving consumers entirely new ways to experience products—and manufacturers an entirely new way to get their products noticed. Imagine a customer browsing for a pair of shoes online. They don’t want to leave their couch. So they opt to virtually try on dozens of different styles from around the globe instead. Then, with just a few clicks, they’re able to virtually try on hundreds more and ultimately make an informed decision. Manufacturers, of course, have always had to work hard to capture consumers’ attention. But with new technologies like these, it is easier than ever for them to ensure their products are front and center in customers’ minds.
7: Material 3D printing Technologies like 3D printing allow industrial manufacturers an entirely new way to create products. And will revolutionize how they make them. There are many benefits to 3D printing that make it an attractive option for manufacturers. Including a lower environmental footprint and fewer production-related injuries (compared with more traditional manufacturing techniques).
How a cloud-based ERP helps in Chemical Manufacturing?
Cloud-based ERP can play a vital role in all aspects of chemical manufacturing. From managing costs to providing effective and real-time inventory control. ERP can transform many departments within chemical manufacturing companies – from engineering to sales and marketing. Here are some ways how cloud ERP can help improve your operations today Where is Blockchain Technology Heading for 2018? The reach of blockchain technology continues to spread far beyond its original foundations.
As an encrypted data storage system for cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. Since its inception with Satoshi Nakamoto’s Bitcoin paper in 2008, blockchain has garnered mainstream interest with its numerous possible applications across industries. In fact, Gartner predicted that by 2022 over half of the major new digital initiatives will incorporate blockchain technologies into their business models or operational processes. We must first look at what makes it so promising and adaptable among industry verticals. While not necessarily an end goal in itself. Blockchains ensure distributed transparency between multiple stakeholders who often don’t trust one another.
Conclusion
The chemical industry is one of many manufacturing verticals in which new technologies are being developed every day. These advancements can have a huge impact on how companies approach business. But also mean that workers must be properly trained on using these new tools and machines. Companies from start-ups to major corporations are embracing these changes. And allowing them to increase their output, be more productive and reduce waste.
