KwaZulu-Natal Industrial Technology Exhibition assists companies on the journey to automation in the I4.0 era
Exhibitors at the KwaZulu-Natal Industrial Technology Exhibition (KITE), being held at the Durban Exhibition Centre between 18 and 20 July 2023, will provide visitors with much-needed assistance on automating their operations during Industry 4.0 (I4.0).
I4.0 is not just a buzzword, but rather it is the impetus for industry to make the move towards smart factories, by adopting, amongst other means, digitalisation. This will result in maximising the automation of operations to enhance productivity and reduce downtime. It is, however, not without its challenges, which include:
- Missing technical skills — this may require companies to upskill their employees or employ people who already possess the required skills.
- Privacy of information — with the rise in technology, there have been increasing concerns over data and IP privacy, ownership, and management, with the PoPI Act being the point of reference in South Africa.
- Interoperability — to optimise automation, silos need to be eliminated, allowing previously disparate systems to be integrated.
- Security — cybersecurity is a concern for anyone operating facilities. It is no longer just a risk for financial institutions, but as the attack surface grows daily, is an increasing concern for anyone using technology that accesses the internet.
- Data growth — with the increase in reliance on artificial intelligence (AI), data will be generated faster, and in multiple formats. Ease of interpretation of the necessary AI algorithms needs to be a priority.
“Despite the challenges, companies should be excited to embrace automation in the era of I4.0. There are so many benefits for companies embarking on this exciting quest, including cost efficiency, competitive advantage, scalability and flexibility, time reduction, enhanced safety, and improved control. KITE will help visitors navigate the journey to automation through the introduction of industrial technology products and services from leading suppliers,” says Charlene Hefer, Portfolio Director at Specialised Exhibitions — a division of Montgomery Group.
The technology and services exhibited at KITE are complemented by the SAIMechE free-to attend Seminar Theatre, which covers diverse topics by industry spokespeople. In a similar vein, the LEEASA (Lifting Equipment Engineering Association of South Africa) conference is targeted at industry delegates interested or involved in the latest trends and regulations within the lifting industry.
To find out more information about booking a stand at KITE 2023, visit the website at www.kznindustrial.co.za or contact:
Christie Nigrini — christie.nigrini@montgomerygroup.com or
Steven Burmeister — steven.burmeister@montgomerygroup.com
Engage with KITE 2023 on social media:
Facebook: KZN Industrial Technology Expo
Twitter: @KZNIndustrial
LinkedIn: KZN Industrial Technology Expo
Instagram: @kznindustrialtechnology
