Automation in Industry: Reality or Myth?

🌍 According to the World Economic Forum, around 85 million jobs were projected to disappear by 2025...

According to the forecasts of the World Economic Forum, by 2025, 85 million jobs were expected to vanish due to automation. Now, being in the year 2025, we can evaluate how accurate these predictions were and assess which sectors have been most affected by technology. The plastics processing and recycling industry is one area where these changes are particularly noticeable…

Modern machines operate 24/7, requiring only periodic maintenance. They do not experience fatigue, do not need breaks or vacations, and maintain a constant level of efficiency. Unlike humans, machines do not make errors caused by fatigue or lack of focus. This makes automation a more cost-effective solution for many businesses than retaining employees for repetitive tasks.

In the coming years, technological progress will accelerate at an unprecedented rate. New chips and advanced AI algorithms could achieve development milestones in just a few years, which previously took decades.

Examples of Advanced Automation Worldwide

In BMW plants in the United States, humanoid AI robots successfully perform complex assembly tasks. In China, fully automated factories operate with minimal human intervention, often requiring just one worker to oversee and initiate the process.

Yes, you read that correctly: one person. About ten years ago, I visited such a factory in China. Everything—absolutely everything—operated automatically. The only person in the factory was the one guiding us on the tour.

This approach minimizes human errors and maximizes operational efficiency.

Automation in Plastic Injection and Extrusion Processes

In the plastics processing industry, key methods include injection molding and extrusion. Automating these processes significantly impacts the structure of employment in the sector.

Injection Molding Automation

Automation in injection molding involves using manipulators and robots to service injection molding machines. Modern automation systems offer precise process control, minimizing errors and increasing production efficiency. For instance, ARBURG provides intelligent manipulators and "turnkey" solutions for injection molding automation.

Extrusion Process Automation

In extrusion, automation involves advanced control systems that monitor and adjust process parameters in real-time. This ensures consistent product quality and increased productivity. Workers previously tasked with manual supervision must adapt to new technologies, learning to operate and program automated systems.

The Impact of Automation on Employment

Automating injection and extrusion processes reduces the demand for workers performing repetitive manual tasks. These individuals should consider upskilling to handle automated systems, aligning with the evolving labor market demands.

The Need for Adaptation and Skills Development

Workers engaged in repetitive tasks must recognize that their positions are most at risk of being replaced by machines. To remain competitive, they should invest in skills development, participate in training, and acquire knowledge in areas less prone to automation.

Skills Worth Developing in Plastics Processing and Recycling

In the dynamic field of plastics processing and recycling, professional development is crucial for maintaining competitiveness. Rolbatch Academy offers various training programs to help workers enhance their expertise in daily operations and analytical thinking.

Key competencies to focus on include:

• Advanced polymer material knowledge: Understanding plastic properties for optimal use.

• Process optimization: Analyzing and improving production methods to boost efficiency.

• Problem-solving in production: Quickly identifying and addressing technical issues.

• Quality control: Ensuring products meet standards and client expectations.

• Recycling management: Streamlining recycling processes for sustainability.

• Safety and hygiene: Maintaining safe work environments.

• Advanced machinery operation: Learning programming and machine operation.

• Project management: Coordinating teams and implementing new technologies.

The Future of Work in the Automation Era

Technological advancements will reshape industries beyond recognition, including plastics processing and recycling. This transformation will favor businesses and employees ready to embrace change and invest in education.

Employers’ Role in Workforce Transformation

Employers play a crucial role in guiding their workforce through these changes. Businesses should:

1. Invest in training: Provide access to courses on automation and robotics.

2. Implement mentoring programs: Facilitate knowledge transfer within teams.

3. Support certifications: Help employees meet market demands.

Automation as a Competitive Necessity

Automation enhances production quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, becoming essential for industry survival. While it reduces the need for repetitive labor, skilled professionals remain vital for supervising and optimizing automated processes.

Which Jobs Are Most at Risk?

Automation impacts various roles, such as:

• Line workers: Replaced by AI-equipped sorting robots.

• Simple machine operators: Tasks now handled by automated systems.

• Quality inspectors: Machines now provide more precise, real-time inspections.

The Future: Human-Machine Collaboration

Rather than eliminating jobs entirely, automation opens opportunities for more advanced roles requiring technical knowledge and decision-making skills.

Conclusion

The rapid pace of technological progress demands adaptability from both employers and employees. Automation is inevitable, but a commitment to education and re-skilling can make this shift beneficial for all.

The future belongs to those ready to learn and evolve. Are you prepared to embrace it?

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