Mitsubishi Electric Automation Blogs

Why Should I Use a VFD Instead of a Soft Starter for Lift Station Pumping?

Jan 23, 2025

Decision makers in lift station pumping systems are left with a crucial decision: choosing between a Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) and a soft starter. While both devices control the operation of pumps, they do so in different ways and offer distinct advantages. This article explores those differences and recommends ways to achieve cost and energy savings.

Sustainable Manufacturing: A Practical Approach to Responsible and Efficient Production

Dec 23, 2024

Manufacturing is naturally an area where sustainability is particularly important because it requires large amounts of resources. There are solutions and strategies to modify existing lines to operate more sustainably, from a quality, performance, and compatibility standpoint. In this blog, you will discover tips and resources, supported by case studies, to manufacture more sustainably.

Choosing the Best HMI/SCADA System – Selection Criteria and Guidelines

Apr 04, 2024

Considering a vendor for HMI/SCADA system solutions requires consideration of an extensive list of criteria. HMI/SCADA software varies in unique advantages and disadvantages. Read more to understand the selection guidelines and items to consider when choosing the best HMI/SCADA software for your application.

Industrial Network Selection Criteria

Feb 08, 2024

The selection of an industrial network is pivotal to creating the most competitive machine, production line, or process. Learn how to select the best network based on your criteria and expectations.

CLPA Monthly Roundup: January 2024

Jan 16, 2024

Find out about cutting-edge developments in industrial automation and network technology by checking out the CC-Link Partner Association’s (CLPA) latest articles.

CLPA Monthly Roundup: Bringing Motion Control to the Next Level

Dec 18, 2023

Find out about cutting-edge developments in industrial automation and network technology by checking out the CC-Link Partner Association’s (CLPA) latest articles.

When You Need a Clutch Performer, Rent a Robot

Nov 07, 2023

Most businesses go through production bursts and such circumstances may result in critical short-term labor shortages. Read more on how you can lease a robot to support during production bursts in every facet – from assembly lines to the warehouse.

Streamlining maintenance operations

Nov 03, 2023

For factories, it can be difficult to secure capital investment budgets to purchase new equipment. Learn how predictive maintenance, achieved through IIoT-based solutions and AI technologies, can extend the life of your existing assets to prevent unexpected downtimes and explore customer success stories post-implementation.

FailSafe Servo Safety for All

Sep 26, 2023

It’s no secret that safety is paramount in automated systems. Fortunately, functional safety systems help mitigate or remove potential safety concerns. Learn more about FailSafe capabilities and how your organization can boost the functional safety and performance of automated lines.

Bridging the IT/OT Security Gap

Aug 14, 2023

The need for remote access to machines, lines, and equipment has increased significantly since the COVID-19 pandemic and as a result, the demand for cybersecurity technologies is heightened. Learn more about this risk and what you can do to ensure your operations are secure.

AI Delivers Smarter Maintenance, Less Downtime

Apr 20, 2023

Knowing when your equipment needs maintenance, an upgrade, or a replacement before a component fails is critical to preventing unscheduled and costly downtime. Learn why using artificial intelligence (AI) to keep watch over your production process can make a difference at your factory.

Dynamic Path Planning Helps Cobots Succeed at Hella Electronics

Apr 20, 2023

A pick-and-place station at Hella Electronics combines ASSISTA robotic arms from Mitsubishi Electric Automation with visual programming and dynamic path planning from Realtime Robotics, changing the company’s approach to factory automation.

24/7 CNC Monitoring in the Palm of Your Hand

Apr 20, 2023

Now you can check whether your CNC equipment is operating day or night efficiently using a mobile app from Mitsubishi Electric and an iOS or Android smart device. You’ll also be notified of alarms, status changes, overrides, and program changes in real time, ensuring that your projects stay on schedule.

Split-Second Timing of TSN Keeps Motion Under Control

Apr 20, 2023

The deterministic network capabilities of CC-Link IE TSN (time-sensitive networking) means that the most complex timing for sophistical motion control and other automated applications will never be overwhelmed by network traffic congestion. Learn how TSN is transforming motion control and enabling OT/IT convergence.

See the Future of Online Training at ICONICS Institute

Apr 20, 2023

With a vast online library of videos, your employees can rely on the ICONICS Institute for practical training 24 hours a day. It’s just one of the many ways ICONICS helps people who use or install its software learn as they go.

Taking the Headaches Out of Using Robots

Jan 26, 2023

Southie Autonomy is speeding the adoption of robots with software that makes it easier to tell a robot what to do without complicated programming or extensive worker training. That means that more applications are finding it easier and less costly to use robots.

Motion Control Design Made Fast, Precise, and Economical

Jan 26, 2023

Economy Motion solutions from Mitsubishi Electric let engineers integrate high-precision motion control systems into new machines quickly, easily and affordably. Pre-configured component bundles take the guesswork out of selecting parts.

Faster Data Access Means Faster Troubleshooting

Jan 26, 2023

Trying to manage a production line for speed and quality when it takes more than 24 hours to find out which equipment malfunctions are causing problems is a recipe for inefficiency. FCC (Adams) turned to Mitsubishi Electric to gain real-time access to its production process.

Time Sensitive Networking Advances Smart Factories

Jan 26, 2023

Case studies show how companies are using CC-Link IE TSN to streamline operations and maximize productivity. Learn how it brings together the multiple network architectures used on most factory floors and in enterprise level networks to improve OT/IT integration.

How Affordable IoT Gateways Help Maximize Asset Health

Jan 26, 2023

To gain real-time access into remote assets, consider IoT gateways as an economical alternative to SCADA and HMI. This architecture provides the crucial analytics, alarming, dashboards and automated notifications essential to improving asset health.

OEM Hacks for Mitigating Labor Shortages, Lowering Costs, and Accelerating TTM

Dec 21, 2022

Learn how OEM hacks around lifecycle management, digital twinning, and automation of optimization bring new levels of efficiency to mitigate disruptions.

Three Things to Remember When Building a Data Center

Nov 21, 2022

When it comes to the industrial sector, the COVID pandemic has had a drastic impact in pushing the 'digital' revolution forward, from how we have business meetings to the way we learn to operate factories. This sudden digital shift, together with the latest developments in 5G communication is stimulating needs for more cloud-based and online solutions, which in-turn is motivating huge investments in IT infrastructure such as data centers.

How OEMs can digitally transform CNC machining

Oct 24, 2022

CNC machine builders and their customers are recognizing that investing in digital technology directly translates into operational excellence.

Looking for the best in OPC communications servers

Oct 24, 2022

Takebishi Corporation has partnered with ICONICS to provide customers around the world with high quality OPC communication.

How time sensitive networking can boost domestic chip production

Oct 24, 2022

The US produces only 12% of the world’s semiconductor production. New technologies like time-sensitive networking can boost that number.

Free software trial from award-winning IIoT solutions provider

Oct 24, 2022

Version 10.97.2 from ICONICS is ready with a free trial, including major enhancements to SCADA systems, historians, data analysis, and more.

Why version control software makes digitalization easier

Oct 24, 2022

Auvesy and MDT Software, two leaders in industrial version control worldwide, join forces as Ausevy-MDT to bring their solution to customers with "octoplant", their new product platform.

Building an Ecosystem for Digital Transformation

Aug 01, 2022

The time is now for digital transformation. The e-Factory Alliance has created an ecosystem to deliver the broad range of products and technologies necessary for building smarter, more connected, more productive factories. See how companies are working together to drive innovation.

CC-Link Partners Empower OT/IT Convergence

Aug 01, 2022

Bringing together the worlds of operations and information technology is the foundation for digital transformation. The high-speed field network CC-Link makes it possible to streamline networks while reducing costs. High-speed, accurate control is achieved with bi-directional communications on a single wire.

Advanced SCADA Unlocks the Power of Real-time Data

Aug 01, 2022

The collection, visualization and analysis of data allows operations to be optimized for manufacturing. A proven system of HMI/SCADA, analytics and mobile solutions running in the cloud from ICONICS leverages remote management to significantly reduce deployment and maintenance costs.

Time is Right for Time-Sensitive Networking

Aug 01, 2022

Providing faster, deterministic communications using TSN technology provides visibility into what’s going on in factories. It’s one of the solutions that will help manufacturers tackle rising costs, supply chain disruptions and a shortage of skilled labor.

Delivering Complete Solutions, Not Just Parts

Aug 01, 2022

Mitsubishi Electric has a long history of deploying devices and systems developed for factory automation to tackle similar problems in other industries. Learn how the ability to reapply already proven solutions can save customers time and money.

Resources Built for Your Success

Aug 01, 2022

Find products, services and complementary solutions in the Mitsubishi Electric ecosystem, including distributors and system integrators in our Diamond Partner networks. Our goal is to help customers reduce total ownership costs, maximize production and provide seamless integration.

How to Keep P.A.C.E. in CNC Machining

Jun 20, 2022

Creating a good part is table stakes. Winning and keeping customers today requires the kind of operational excellence that’s only possible with digital transformation. Discover what’s now, what’s new, and what’s next in CNC machining.

Accelerating Digital Transformation Through the e-F@ctory Alliance

May 19, 2022

Accelerating digital transformation through truly scalable solutions is what the Mitsubishi Electric e-F@ctory Alliance is all about. By working with best-in-class digital leaders, we can provide a complete solution for our customers.

Better Together - ICONICS Partnering with Mitsubishi Electric Automation for Automate 2022

May 16, 2022

Automate 2022, “the largest and most inspiring showcase of automation in North America” is set for June 6 – 9 at the Huntington Place Convention Center in Detroit, Michigan. As two companies that are at the forefront of automation technology, ICONICS will be exhibiting alongside Mitsubishi Electric to showcase complimentary solutions and innovative technology.

Capitalize on Future Opportunities by Embracing Smart Automation Now

Apr 20, 2022

Whether you are a supplier, a manufacturer or a distributor, your world is changing at an unprecedented pace. See why companies are implementing smart automation technology to transform change into opportunities for increased performance, visibility, reliability, and flexibility.

4 Manufacturing Automation Lessons Learned During The COVID-19 Pandemic

Mar 22, 2022

In early 2020, the trajectory of life (and work) around the globe took an unexpected turn. At the time of this article's writing (March 2022), we look back on how the COVID-19 pandemic changed the manufacturing industry forever - especially as it comes to the topics of digital transformation, remote work, and supply chain disruptions. How does automation factor into the equation now, and into the future?

Don't Be Reactive, Be Proactive with Preventive and Predictive Maintenance

Feb 17, 2022

Reducing unexpected downtime is a must for manufacturers that want to succeed in today's ultra-competitive market. Reactive maintenance is no longer good enough - it costs time and money you can't afford to spend. This article highlights the benefits of preventive and predictive maintenance, more proactive and effective ways to keep equipment and your business in good health.

E-Waste: It’s Time to Take Notice

Jan 11, 2022

Electronic and electrical waste is increasing every year, thanks to insatiable demand for consumer and commercial devices and equipment. When e-waste is improperly disposed of, it can have a serious effect on the wellbeing of the planet and people around the world. Discover what’s driving the ever-rising volumes of e-waste, and some ways you can make a difference.

Training Tomorrow’s Manufacturing Workforce, Today

Dec 13, 2021

Thanks to digital transformation and the COVID pandemic, the manufacturing skills gap and labor shortage are all too real. The industry desperately needs workers who understand and can operate advanced automation technologies to help manufacturing organizations evolve successfully. Learn how Mitsubishi Electric is helping train tomorrow's leaders today through our Diamondworks! program.

When Just-in-Time Just Doesn’t Work

Nov 29, 2021

Manufacturers have been hit hard since the pandemic, with today's supply chain disruptions wreaking havoc on production and earnings. Smart organizations are beginning to ease off the industry's ultra-lean just-in-time approach to inventory management – and turning toward a more balanced position between risk and resilience. See how you can not only survive during the next big disruption, but thrive.

Revolutionize Your Crane Operations with Industry 4.0

Oct 26, 2021

If you’re not implementing Industry 4.0 technologies into your crane operations or material handling facilities, you are setting yourself up to be left behind. By embracing technologies such as AI, machine learning, cloud and edge computing, Internet of Things, and data analytics, you can transform your organization and workforce with improved productivity, lower costs, and much more.

Make Way For More Flexible, Responsive Packaging Robots

Sep 16, 2021

While robots have been used in packaging enterprises for some time, a new set of pressures is driving the search for greater agility and flexibility to stay competitive. Today’s robotic solutions are doing more than ever to address those needs. Discover how robots are changing the packaging industry and keeping companies afloat.

Decrease Process Time, Improve Outcomes with Advanced Vibration Suppression

Aug 23, 2021

Machine vibration can be a problem and if left uncontrolled can reduce the life of your machinery, slow down production, reduce system performance, and cause parts quality to suffer. Fortunately, many of today’s servo systems offer powerful vibration suppression capabilities that can keep you competitive.

Three Efficiencies to Consider in Water and Wastewater VFD Applications

Jul 14, 2021

VFDs aren’t new in the water treatment industry, but today’s VFDs are offering a range of capabilities that drive energy efficiency, reduce equipment damage, and keep organizations competitive. Read this month’s feature article for three things that can help you get the most out of your VFDs for water and wastewater applications.

Modernize Water Operations to Minimize Costs

Jun 24, 2021

The municipal water sector has been plagued by leaks, lead pipes and lack of capital expenditure. The need for smarter, more resilient and more connected services and solutions has never been greater. Digital water solutions — including hardware, software and services — are the answer.

Reduce Risk of Downtime with a VFD That Eliminates Clogs

May 24, 2021

VFDs have long been used in wastewater treatment plants because they offer a range of efficiency and cost-saving benefits. But today’s VFDs can do even more. See how VFDs are leveraging advanced technology to keep treatment plant pumps clear of clogs and running at peak performance.

Mitsubishi Electric & ICONICS Move SCADA Forward

Apr 20, 2021

The latest SCADA solution from ICONICS and Mitsubishi Electric is now available. ICONICS Suite v10.97 represents a complete upgrade and replacement of MC Works64. It brings new levels of seamless SCADA-based connectivity, while opening a world of new opportunities for IoT, cloud computing, proactive maintenance management and more. Experts from Mitsubishi Electric discuss the features of the new suite and their benefits for customers and end users everywhere.

New Ways to Leverage Industrial Robots

Mar 18, 2021

One-by-one, the barriers to industrial robot adoption are being blown away thanks to a convergence of advanced technologies and the introduction of exciting new technologies and services. Read this month’s feature article to learn about the new industries, the new capabilities and the new possibilities for leveraging industrial robots.

Driving Energy Efficiency

Feb 22, 2021

Electric motors are used pervasively in industry for industrial pumps, electric fans, compressed air systems, conveyors, material handling and more. Most of these motors run at full speed or they’re off. There is no middle-ground, because their speed can’t be altered on their own. As a result, they consume more electricity than required to do the job. Variable frequency drives (VFDs) can mitigate unnecessary power consumption in many industrial and commercial applications by varying the speed (or frequency) of motors.

Leveraging Data from the Shop Floor to the Top Floor

Jan 11, 2021

Digital transformation in manufacturing is falling behind other industries. Data is already available, but companies haven’t put the technology in place to use that data effectively. McKinsey says an agile (or smart) manufacturing plant can improve operational performance by 30-50%. With so much to gain, why are so many manufacturers dragging their feet?

Integrate Control and Safety and Unlock Hidden Potential

Dec 14, 2020

When it comes to machine design, safety shouldn’t be an afterthought. It should not be something that is added once the production equipment is in place. Rather, comprehensive safety should be built into every component from the beginning to reduce risk upfront and avoid accidents and litigation later.

Real-time industrial Ethernet. It’s real. And it’s really r(E)volutionary.

Nov 17, 2020

Time-sensitive networking (TSN) has been in the news a lot lately. You can understand why if you’ve had to deal with all the different communication standards that co-exist in today’s automation systems.

The Key to Evolutionary IIoT? Backward and Forward Compatibility.

Oct 27, 2020

IIoT integration is a gradual process, so forward migration and compatibility between older and newer industrial automation components is paramount.

Compact AI Brings BIG Benefits to Manufacturers

Sep 29, 2020

Zero unplanned downtime is now a top priority for the majority of manufacturers. Learn how you can make maintenance smarter to drive down costs and protect margins.