Progress in robotics and automation calls for advanced cable and connectivity solutions

By OEM Update Editorial January 2, 2023 1:41 pm IST

Advancements in robotics and automation call for agile, minimal cables with high data transfer capacity.

Since its inception till date, innovation has remained one of LAPP’s fundamental guiding principles, and our operations are all centred around innovation. In 2022, we launched our product ETHERLINE® GUARD in key markets globally, including India. ETHERLINE® GUARD is a stationary monitoring device that continuously monitors an Ethernet cable, detects declines in performance and displays it with the cable status. This is the latest addition to LAPP’s extensive industrial communication portfolio. By leveraging the power of preventive maintenance, this compact and easy- to-install device has proved essential in preventing potential system failures due to cable wear and tear and unplanned downtimes.

We recently launched the symmetrical PUR motor cable ÖLFLEX® SERVO FD zeroCM with an innovative cable design. It is particularly suitable for drag chains and impresses with increased electromagnetic compatibility and simplified cable connection. We have also expanded our PROFINET range with the new ÖLFLEX® CLASSIC PN PVC connection cable for supplying power to PROFINET components. Our ÖLFLEX® CLASSIC portfolio has been complemented by single-core, halogen-free cables for building wiring and new cable gland accessories from the SKINDICHT® lead-free series. Our teams collaborate to ideate and develop creative and innovative solutions tailor-made for local market requirements. Keeping this in mind, our new office space is designed to fuel creativity and enable increased communication between departments, which is the key to encouraging innovation and growth. We aim to partner with young minds to innovate. We also recently inaugurated our third Center of Excellence (CoE) at the Maulana Azad National Institute of Technology (MANIT) in Bhopal this year.

Monitoring systems and control processes becoming cloud-based
With the digital boom enabling scalable, faster, reliable, and interoperable communication protocols across industries, manufacturers will have to step up to meet the boost in demand for cables and wires. 5G and the resultant advancements in communication are major growth drivers for this industry. Contrary to popular belief, even with the widespread implementation of 5G, cables will remain an essential infrastructure pillar as data will continue to flow through conventional channels in combination with fibre- optic cables. New possibilities in industrial communication require a higher data exchange and an increased number of high-capacity servers and storage devices. This calls for data centre expansion, increasing the demand for power and optical fibre cables.

Simultaneously, advancements in robotics and automation call for agile, minimal cables that must be compact and lightweight, with high data transfer capacity. Monitoring systems and control processes are becoming cloud-based. Wire and cable manufacturers are continuously working on adapting their products and solutions to these new systems that require scalability, adaptability, extensibility, and manageability while providing real-time performance with minimal scope for error.

LAPP’s local manufacturing facilities cater to Indian customer requirements and demands
The Make-in-India movement has opened up opportunities for brands to localise their operations and be closer to their customers. To provide maximum value to customers, it is essential to provide them with locally manufactured products that meet global standards.

A prime area of focus for us is shifting towards local manufacturing of products and local sourcing of raw materials. The policy of Make in India will help deliver delightful customer experiences. LAPP is known to be the pioneer in power and control cable manufacturers in India. India is currently LAPP’s second-largest market, with double- digit growth and strengthening across various industries and applications. We are focusing on expanding our reach through various touch points across India and scaling up our local manufacturing capacity to meet the growing business demands. Unlike many other multinational companies in the industry, LAPP has local manufacturing facilities that specifically cater to Indian customers requirements and demands.