As a pioneer in the industry, Masterflex Group is using artificial intelligence (AI) to optimise its hose extrusion production through digitalisation and modern assistance systems. The first results of the long-term development project, carried out in cooperation with a start-up, are now available and demonstrate the AI system's excellent forecasting accuracy. Industry experts have described the system in the Masterflex extrusion hall as the most advanced in the world. The use of algorithms from the field of machine learning stabilises production processes, increases product quality and conserves resources.
Process optimisation through machine learning
Advanced AI algorithms can be used to reliably predict important quality parameters. In addition, anomaly detection enables the early identification of deviations in article- and plant-specific process parameters. The goal: automated monitoring of the production process. AI detects deviations from the optimal process and continuously provides recommendations for adjusting process parameters, such as screw speed. In addition, further predictions about future process stability can be provided. One example of this is the prediction of parameters such as hose pitch to ensure production stability.
Advantages for production
- The integration of AI brings far-reaching advantages for Masterflex:
- Individual employee knowledge is digitised and made accessible to everyone.
- Manufacturing processes become more stable, which ensures production quality.
- Faster start-up reduces the time to good production, which saves resources.
- Less waste and material consumption save resources and costs.
- Greater efficiency in personnel deployment reduces the workload on employees and improves work organisation.
- AI-based assistance functions support real-time decision-making.
- Focus on sustainability and efficiency
The new technologies not only enable more efficient production, but also contribute to sustainability. Reduced material consumption and lower scrap quantities minimise environmental impact.
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Future prospects
With the successful implementation of these projects, the Masterflex Group is setting new standards in the industry. The combination of people and AI promises to make production processes not only more efficient, but also more flexible and future-proof. Digitalisation and the use of machine learning thus mark another decisive step towards Industry 4.0 and a resource-efficient future, in line with our Hero@Zero corporate strategy.
