FEATURE
DRIVES, CONTROLS & MOTORS
POWERING INDUSTRY 4.0 A Society of Operations Engineers (SOE) study shows that 80%
of UK manufacturers are confident industry 4.0 will be integral to
their business in 2025. While much attention has been given to AI, the Internet of Things (IoT) and robotics, the critical components behind the technology are often overlooked. Dave Walsha, director of sales and marketing at drive system supplier Electro Mechanical Systems (EMS), explains the role of motors in driving industry 4.0 and offers insights on selecting the right motor for these applications
in manufacturing. It connects technologies like IoT, AI and big data analytics, enabling machines to communicate, process data and autonomously optimise production. As industries embrace digital transformation,
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advanced motors enable the responsiveness and adaptability required for modern manufacturing systems, while simultaneously meeting the growing demand for precision, flexibility and sustainability.
DRIVERS OF ADVANCED MOTOR INTEGRATION A significant factor for integrating advanced motors into industry 4.0 applications is the
32 DESIGN SOLUTIONS MARCH 2025
ndustry 4.0, the fourth industrial revolution, integrates cyber-physical systems, automation and data exchange
increasing demand for higher precision in manufacturing. In high-speed production lines, intricate robotic movement and sophisticated machinery, advanced motors allow actions to be performed with exceptional precision. This enhances productivity, improves quality and ensures operational efficiency. Flexibility and adaptability are also vital in modern manufacturing. As the industry shifts from mass production to customisation and short-run manufacturing, motors must quickly adapt to varying conditions. This flexibility allows production lines to seamlessly switch between tasks, handle diverse products and maintain consistent performance despite fluctuating demands. Sustainability has become a central focus in manufacturing, with pressure to reduce energy
consumption and carbon footprints. Here, advanced motors, operating at lower energy levels while maintaining high performance, enable manufacturers to reduce costs and meet their environmental goals. Considering these factors, selecting the right
motor for Industry 4.0 applications is critical to achieving optimal performance and efficiency across various manufacturing processes.
MOTOR SELECTION As industries embrace automation and advanced technologies, the demands on motors are becoming more stringent. As a result, motors must align with the unique needs of each application. Modern manufacturing processes are dynamic, with load conditions, speed, torque and power all
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