RFID in the manufacturing industry

The role of RFID technology in the manufacturing industry

The role of RFID technology in the manufacturing industry has evolved considerably in current times. Its usefulness goes beyond simply tracking products over long distances. In manufacturing processes, the information contained in RFID tags is used in an increasingly sophisticated way, which results in a greater flexibility and efficiency in the production of personalized products. Additionally, it allows for a higher level of automation and standardization, leading to a significant improvement in operational efficiency, all at a reduced cost.

The advantages of this technology are notable compared to other methods, such as barcodes. RFID tags do not require a power source or direct line of sight between the reader and the tag, which expands its application possibilities.

The flexibility of RFID labels is notable, since they can adapt to different types of products and surfaces. In addition, they have the capacity to store a significant amount of data, and their reading and processing are extremely fast, requiring only a few milliseconds.

The information contained in RFID tags becomes a valuable asset in its own right. Tracking the product, from its production phase to its arrival at the retailer, provides crucial data in the era of Big Data. Thanks to this new source of information and the help of tools such as the Business Intelligence or the Data Mining, manufacturers can make more informed decisions. This translates into the ability to explore alternative and variable solutions to implement “just-in-time” and “just-in-sequence” production strategies. In addition, it gives them the opportunity to delve deeper into production control, process optimization and quality management.

Why use RFID tags in the manufacturing industry?

The use of RFID tags in manufacturing industry It has multiple benefits and advantages. Below are the reasons why it is advisable to incorporate this technology in this sector:

• Decrease in stock of materials: RFID tags enable precise control of raw material stocks, leading to a reduction in unnecessary inventory and therefore savings in storage costs.
• Counterfeit prevention: RFID technology can help authenticate products and prevent the proliferation of counterfeit products in the supply chain.
• Efficient inventory management: RFID tags provide a real-time view of inventory, facilitating more efficient and accurate management of products in stock.
• Reduction of shrinkage or losses: Accurate product tracking via RFID reduces losses and shrink by identifying and addressing issues immediately.
• Production processes just in time (just in time): The real-time availability of data on market demand makes it possible to establish production processes that are more tailored to needs, minimizing waste and improving efficiency.
• Product customization: Knowing the consumption habits of different segments of the population allows products to be adapted more effectively to meet specific customer needs.
• Efficiency in shipments to the market: By producing according to actual demand, shipping processes are streamlined and excessive storage is avoided.
• Product tracking throughout the production chain: RFID tags allow products to be tracked from raw materials to the final product, ensuring transparency and traceability.
• Packing and packaging controls: RFID technology facilitates automatic verification that the packaged product matches the shipping order, reducing errors.
• Location of production lots in real time: This facilitates production management and guarantees the quality and safety of the products.
• Quality check: RFID tags allow for more detailed and accurate tracking of quality standards, improving the quality of the final product.
• Safety in the assembly of parts: Ensures the compatibility and correct sequence of assembly processes.
• Availability of production lines: Real-time monitoring helps optimize the use of production lines, avoiding downtime.
• Timely preventive and corrective maintenance: RFID technology provides data that allows maintenance to be scheduled and executed more efficiently.
• Workload rescheduling: Production scheduling can be adjusted based on line availability and production progress.
• Availability of materials at each stage of the production process: Production stoppages due to lack of materials are avoided, which improves efficiency.
• Calculation of efficiencies: Real-time data allows for accurate calculation of production efficiencies, making it easier to make informed decisions.

How is RFID technology applied in the manufacturing industry?

The RFID technology is applied in the manufacturing industry in various aspects, providing benefits in terms of efficiency, security and asset management. Here are some of the ways RFID is used in manufacturing:

• Manufacturing
  • Improvement of the interaction between components and machinery: RFID facilitates more effective communication between products, components and the machinery used in the manufacturing process. This allows for individualization opportunities, where products can instruct machines about their specific needs at each stage of the production chain.
  • Product Status Update: At the end of each production stage, the machine can store the product status update in the RFID tag. This information is accessible through real-time analysis tools, allowing precise monitoring and control of the manufacturing process.
  • Security and authenticity: The security built into the RFID tag serves as proof of authenticity, quality and security at any point in the manufacturing process. This helps reduce the risk of counterfeit products and ensures quality.
  • Customization operations: RFID tags are accessible even when the product is in its box, allowing for last-minute customization operations, such as setting the product language.
  • Spare parts authentication: Machines can authenticate their own spare parts, ensuring correct spare parts are being used and reducing errors in production.

• Supply chain
  • Track and Trace: RFID is used to track and trace products throughout the entire supply chain. This improves visibility and efficiency in inventory and logistics management.
  • Digital authentication: RFID helps protect brand owners against counterfeiting and facilitates the passage of products through border and customs controls.

• Pre and post sale
  • Product authentication: In commercial premises, customers can check the authenticity of a product thanks to the information stored in the RFID tag.
  • Continuous interaction with clients: After the purchase, the RFID tag continues to generate interactions between the buyer and the manufacturer, offering information on spare parts, warranty and proper recycling.

• Manufacture
  • Automation of assembly processes and systems: RFID is used to automate assembly processes, production of spare parts, parts and other components, which improves efficiency and reduces errors.

• Asset Management
  • Asset Management: RFID is used to intelligently track business assets such as components, vehicle fleets, equipment and other items, making them easier to manage and maintain.

• Security and access
  • Access control: RFID is used to control access to industrial plants, buildings, restricted areas, and ensure security in various environments, such as parking lots or animal control.

RFID technology is a transformative tool that can boost the efficiency and accuracy of the manufacturing industry. From supply chain optimization to manufacturing process automation. If you would like to explore how RFID technology can benefit your business or have any additional questions, please feel free to contact contact to our executives, who will provide you with personalized advice.