Rexel – Rexel USA Acquires DEE Electronics, expanding into specialized OEM solutions

EMR Analysis

More information on Rexel: See the full profile on EMR Executive Services

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More information on Laurent Delabarre (Group Chief Financial Officer, Leading China-India Cluster, Rexel): See the full profile on EMR Executive Services

More information on Axelerate 2028 Plan by Rexel: See the full profile on EMR Executive Services 

 

 

More information on Rexel USA Inc. by Rexel: https://www.rexelusa.com + We’re the US corporate operations of Rexel, one of the largest electrical distributors in the world. Rexel North America 2025 Revenue was at € 8.9bn (46% of total Sales) with 10,086 employees and 660 Branches. Rexel USA, headquartered in Dallas, Texas, operates its electrical distribution business in the United States through eight Regions, a distribution network of over 450 warehouse storefront locations and had 2025 Revenue of € 7.4bn (83% of the North America Region Sales) with over 460 branches in the United States.

Our Focus on Smarter Solutions Made us America’s Premier Distributor.

Other Rexel USA Companies are:

• PLATT Electric Supply by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.platt.com/ + Platt supplies a broad range of high quality products and services to the utility, industrial, electrical, construction, solar, data-com/security and commercial markets.
  • Platt serves customers throughout the west from a network of over 135 full service stocking locations and distribution centers in Salt Lake City, Utah, Beaverton, Oregon, and Patterson, California.
  • Platt is a value-added service company that supplies a broad range of high quality products and services to the utility, industrial, electrical, construction, solar, datacomm/security and commercial markets.
  • Platt services are designed to save time and money using technology, training, logistics and information, ensuring customers receive consistent quality services each and every transaction and/or process.
  • PLATT has been acquired by Rexel in 2012.
• Mayer Electricby Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.mayerelectric.com + Electric Supply, Distribution and Connected Solutions. We offer products, solutions, and tools in lighting, DataCom, power distribution, and automation. Serving contractors, industrials, OEMs, institutions, government, utilities, businesses, and residents, we’ve delivered exceptional service and innovative solutions since 1930.
  • As a Rexel USA banner company, Mayer is one of the nation’s largest wholesale distributors of electrical products and equipment, connected solutions, lighting, digital tools, DataCom technologies, power distribution, and automation and control systems. We serve contractors, industrials, OEMs, integrators, institutions, government entities, utility providers, commercial businesses, and residential customers.
  • Founded in 1930, Mayer was a privately-held, family and certified women-owned business that employed over 1,200 associates in over 68 locations across 12 states and generated sales of $1.2bn over the last twelve months through end-August 2021 when acquired by Rexel.
    • More information on Patrick Daley (Senior Vice President, President, Mayer Electric Supply, Rexel USA, Rexel): See the full profile on EMR Executive Services
    • Electrical Supplies Inc. (ESI) by Mayer Electric by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.electricalsuppliesinc.com/ + https://www.mayerelectric.com/esi + For the past 40 years, Electrical Supplies Inc. has prided itself on providing our customers with the best overall value in the electrical distribution industry.
      • Our philosophy of delivering the highest quality electrical materials, along with first class customer service at competitive prices, has helped us grow into an industry leader across southeast Florida.
      • With three convenient locations located in Pompano Beach, Miami and Homestead, ESI can supply all your electrical needs.
      • ESI offers an unbeatable combination of product selection, industry knowledge and customer service, all with the efficiency and responsiveness of an independent business. With a fleet of delivery trucks servicing most of south Florida, you can count on us for timely efficient delivery.
      • ESI has been acquired by Rexel on August 1, 2024.
        • More information on James Segal (President, Electrical Supplies Inc. (ESI), Mayer Electric Supply, Rexel USA, Rexel): See the full profile on EMR Executive Services
• Gexpro by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.gexpro.com + Gexpro supports customers across the country to create value, lower their total cost of ownership and run their businesses better.
  • Gexpro combines productivity tools, large local inventories and dedicated product and solutions specialists to get customers the electrical supplies they need, when and where they need them. Gexpro supports customers across the country and the world to create value, lower their total cost of ownership and run their businesses better.
  • In addition to our online store, we have over 80 warehouse storefront locations throughout the U.S. where customers can find the electrical material they need for their projects as well as product expertise from our experienced staff.
  • Gexpro has been acquired by Rexel in 2019.
• Talley Inc. by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.talleycom.com/ + Talley aims to be the top wireless distributor in the USA, offering network products for both Private and Public wireless networks. As a Rexel brand, Talley is expanding its focus to cover the full spectrum of telecommunications, including both wired and wireless solutions.
  • Talley LLC. was founded in 1983 under its original name Talley Electronics Corp. The organization was intended to serve the needs of wireless communications professionals in a wide range of industries, from local Public Safety to nationwide Cellular and everything in-between. With 12 facilities nationwide, Talley is now one of the nation’s largest distributors of Wireless Infrastructure, Communications and Mobile Products.
  • Talley serves customers in several industry segments, by stocking inventory from over 300 top industry suppliers. Our inventory reflects the demands of Wireless Communications, Infrastructure, and Mobile Communications users. Talley offers personalized, expert assistance to help you accomplish your projects in the shortest time, providing you with the best possible products at the lowest overall project cost. It means a live industry veteran will be available to you whenever you need assistance, from placing a simple order to helping you plan your next project.
  • Privately held family owned business since 1983.
  • 12 stocking and processing distribution centers nationwide.
  • 300+ Industry-leading manufacturers in stock.
  • 9001 Quality service and best-in-class products. ISO Registered 9001:2015.
  • When acquired in June 2024 by Rexel, Talley generated turnover of c. $360m in 2024 with 300+ employees.
    • More information on Mark Talley (President and Chief Executive Officer, Talley Inc., Rexel USA, Rexel): See the full profile on EMR Executive Services
      • Connectronics by Talley Inc. by Rexel USA by Rexel : https://www.connectronics.com/ + Connectronics is a distributor of wireless and connectivity products selling to VARs, ISPs and System Integrators since 1982.
        • Our mission is to distribute industry leading wireless and connectivity products which exceed our customers’ expectations; including assistance in the design and development of Wireless Backhaul, DAS, PtMP and Client Access solutions. We accomplish this through our dedication to providing professional customer service, prompt delivery and manufacturer certified technical support.
        • Connectronics gives you access to 30+ strategically-selected manufacturers of high-quality wireless and connectivity products.
        • Connectronics was previously owned by Bald Cypress Advisors.
        • Connectronics has been acquired by Talley Inc. in August 2025.
          • More information on Paul Meyer (Managing Director, Connectronics, Talley Inc., Rexel USA, Rexel): See the full profile on EMR Executive Services
• Rexel Energy Solutions by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.rexelenergy.com + We are a forward-thinking purveyor of energy efficient solutions, exclusively focused on Energy Service Companies and Utility-driven programs.
  • Energy Optimization + Electrification Solutions
  • For the past 35 years, the Rexel Energy Solutions team has enabled our clients to make smart choices for a sustainable future through energy efficiency upgrades in facilities across the country.  As a specifying distributor supporting Energy Service Companies (ESCOs), Utility-driven programs, and energy retrofits, our team implements over 60,000 energy projects across the country annually.
  • A specialized, standalone business unit within Rexel, RES is a stocking distributor of energy efficient products and technologies from top tier manufacturers, and are continually vetting new and emerging technologies to assist our clients in providing comprehensive energy retrofits for their end user clients.   We continue to research new ways to further decrease the levels of greenhouse gases and expand our offering to help create a more sustainable future for generations to come.
  • Rexel Energy Solutions has been acquired by Rexel in 2014 after the acquisition of Munro Distributing.
    • More information on Paul Michaud (Vice President, General Manager, Rexel Energy Solutions, Rexel USA, Rexel): See the full profile on EMR Executive Services
• Capitol Light by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.capitollight.com + Your National Lighting Source. Capitol Light is a national lighting and electrical distributor to over 275 retail chains, hotels, restaurants, grocery stores, assisted living centers, auto dealerships, financial institutions, casinos, educational facilities, and more!
  • Incorporated in 1926 and with 50 offices coast to coast we are your onestop shop lighting provider. With a customer-centric focus and a culture of cooperation we supply sustainable lighting designs, unparalleled project management for new construction supply needs, the most comprehensive lamp replacement program on the market, lamp recycling, lighting and electrical maintenance for the U.S., Canada and Puerto Rico, complete turnkey remodel/retrofits and we handle all of the administrative duties for qualifying and collecting applicable utility rebates on your behalf.
  • Capitol Light has been acquired by Rexel in 2006.
    • More information on David Mullane (President, Capitol Lighting, Rexel USA, Rexel): See the full profile on EMR Executive Services
• psc (Parts Super Center) by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.partssupercenter.com + PSC is a full scope parts program management solution and GE renewal parts center (outsourcing for OEMs).
  • This includes sourcing highly engineered parts, new parts, supply chain, stocking, and inventory optimization programs, life-extension solutions, technical support, and more. Our in-house technical specialists offer critical spare stocking and planning services tailored to your specific installation base, including genuine OEM renewal parts. Whether you need renewal parts, life-extension kits, or complete units, we are committed to providing cost-effective solutions for your business.
  • Originally a department of GE Supply, PSC became its own business in 2006 when Rexel Holdings acquired GE Supply and rebranded the organization. We are licensed to have the original drawings, intellectual property, and over 15,000 SKU’s to support the GE installed base.
  • With over 25 years of experience in the power distribution and control markets, we are highly qualified to assist you with the identification and supply of genuine, OEM renewal parts to help your operations remain efficient and profitable. Whether you need renewal parts, life-extension kits, or complete units, we are your solution.
  • psc has been acquired by Rexel in 2006.
    • More information on Hani Masoudi (Senior Vice President, Advanced Services and Parts Super Center (PSC), Rexel USA, Rexel): See the full profile on EMR Executive Services
• Teche Electric Supply, LLC by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://teche-electric.com/ + Keeping you competitive, Keeping youn supplied
  • Teche Electric is an independent, family owned distributor serving commercial/residential construction, industrial and municipal markets. We support new construction, building renovations, maintenance and repair operations (MRO) and original equipment manufacturing (OEM).
  • Teche Electric has been acquired by Rexel in 2023.
    • Reulet Electric Supply by Teche Electric Supply, LLC by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.reulet-electric.com + Reulet Electric Supplies is an all inclusive Electrical supply company located Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Reulet sells all products for Commercial, Utility and Industrial electrical applications. It also has a utility tool repair and re-certification division.
      • Reulet Electric Supplies has been acquired by Teche Electric Supply in 2021.
• Utility Supply Group by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.go-usg.com + Utility Supply Group is the premier supplier of electrical products and components for RV parks, campgrounds, marinas, mobile/manufactured home communities, resorts, park management companies and contractors throughout the U.S. and Canada.
  • Utility Supply Group is a nation-wide supplier to RV Parks and Campgrounds.  We ship from warehouses near Kansas City & Seattle to all of North America.  USG maintains over $500,000 in inventory for immediate shipment.  We also drop ship from many manufacturers.
  • Utility Supply Group has been acquired by Rexel in 2021.
• Valley Electric Supply by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://valleyelectricsupply.net/
  • Valley Electric Supply is a successful longstanding family-owned business located in Glenwood Springs, Colorado which primarily services the Roaring Fork Valley and adjacent geographies in Western Colorado.
  • Valley Electric Supply has been acquired by Rexel in 2022
• Buckles-Smith Electric by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.buckles-smith.com/
  • Premier Electrical ans Automation Solutions provider for Northern California. With over 80 years in the industry, we’ve seen it all, and we understand the frustrations of malfunctioning parts and machinery failure. Buckles-Smith provided integrated electrical and automation solutions by offering high-end customer service and quality products. Buckles Smith operated 6 branches and generated 2022 sales of c. USD150m.
  • As of August, 2023 Buckles-Smith became a banner of Rexel USA.
• Schwing Electrical Supply Corp. by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.schwingelectric.com/
  • Founded by Charles W. Schwing in 1960, Schwing Electrical Supply Corp remains a local, family owned and operated business.
  • We have been servicing the residential, commercial, industrial and OEM electrical markets throughout Nassau and Suffolk Counties for almost 60 years. Schwing Electric has grown from a single 2,200 sq ft location to a multi-location corporation totaling nearly 85,000 sq ft of warehouse space making Schwing Electric the largest independent Supply house on Long Island with 6 locations, around 100 people and $70m sales.
  • Schwing Electrical Supply Corp has been acquired by Rexel on April 1, 2025.
    • More information on Peter Schwing (Owner, Schwing Electrical Supply Corp., Rexel USA, Rexel): https://www.linkedin.com/in/schwing-peter-90a1278/
• Warshauer Electric Supply by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.warshauer.com/home +
  • Warshauer Electric Supply was founded in 1954 by Martin Warshauer and is currently led by his son, Jim. With over 70 years of experience as an electrical wholesaler, Warshauer is more than just a full-service supply house – we are your trusted partner for all things electrical! We provide extensive expertise across a range of services, including Switchgear Solutions (featuring a Siemens Custom Quick-Ship Panelboard/Switchboard program), Engineering Services, Generator Sales, Service, and Rentals, Commercial Lighting, Green Energy Solutions, High-End Residential Lighting, Lighting Design, and Hunter Douglas shading solutions.
  • As an industry leader in instruction and education, we offer training for licensed contractors, aspiring electricians, interior designers and architects through various accreditations and certifications by the NJ Board of Electrical Examiners, NJ Department of Labor, ASID-NJ, DE, PA, and City of Philadelphia.
  • With 180 employees and five convenient distribution locations throughout New Jersey (Parsippany, New Brunswick (UEZ Sales Tax), Tinton Falls (HQ), Lakewood (UEZ Sales Tax) and Woodbury), we proudly offer free delivery to any jobsite and promise exceptional fill rates at very competitive price levels.
  • Warshauer Electric Supply has been acquired by Rexel in June 2025.
    • More information on Jim Warshauer (President, Warshauer Electric Supply, Rexel USA, Rexel): https://www.linkedin.com/in/schwing-peter-90a1278/
• Revere Electrical Supply by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://www.revereelectric.com/ +
  • Revere Electric Supply is a 4th generation, family owned independent electrical distributor with 10 locations throughout Illinois and Southern Wisconsin.  We rely on our industry leading employees; consisting of on-staff experts to build lasting partnerships with our partners and customers.
  • Founded in 1919, Revere has grown from a small Chicago-area distributor into a trusted, multi-location business serving customers across Northern Illinois, Central Illinois, Southeast Wisconsin, and Northwest Indiana. Today, Revere operates 10 locations, employs 375 people, and is widely respected for its capabilities across industrial automation, electrical construction, and value‑added solution delivery. Revere’s long-standing customer and supplier relationships position the company as a cornerstone distributor in the Midwest industrial market.
  • Following the transaction, Revere will continue to operate under the Revere Electric Supply name, maintaining its strong local identity, customer relationships, and market presence.
  • The company operates 10 branches and generated turnover of c. $330.
  • Revere, acquired in May 2026, is Rexel’s 16th acquisition in North America since 2020 and its second biggest.
    • More information on John Cady (President, Revere Electrical Supply, Rexel USA, Rexel + Senior Vice President, Region President, Midwest, Rexel USA, Rexel): https://www.linkedin.com/in/schwing-peter-9
• More information on DEE Electronics by Rexel Advanced Services by Rexel USA by Rexel: https://dee-inc.com/ + DEE is a Value-Creation Integrator, a 60 year old company that has been providing Manufacturing Services, Distribution Services, and Sourcing/Logistics Services to Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM’s) from all industries.
  • DEE provides a compelling and highly Unique Value Proposition and committed consistent savings to OEM’s.  See our Unique Value Proposition page for details.
  • With extreme width/depth in capabilities, extreme flexibility, ultra- responsiveness, and hands-on executive management our relationship, OEM’s tell us that there is no other company like DEE they have as a Preferred Supplier.
  • Founded in 1959 and headquartered in Cedar Rapids, IA, DEE has more than 200 employees and serves OEM customers across North America. Its capabilities include wire harnesses, cable assemblies, printed circuit board assemblies, control panels, control box assemblies, custom kitting, component sourcing and logistics services.
  • DEE combines electronic component distribution with manufacturing and value-added services designed specifically for OEM production and supply chains.
    • More information on Todd Gifford (President and Chief Executive Officer, DEE Electronics, Rexel Advanced Services, Rexel USA, Rexel): See the full profile on EMR Executive Services

 

 

More information on Roger Little (Group Executive Committee Member + Chief Executive Officer, Rexel USA and Leader of the USA-Canada Cluster, Rexel): See the full profile on EMR Executive Services

More information on Scott Asselborn (Senior Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Rexel USA, Rexel): See the full profile on EMR Executive Services

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

EMR Additional Notes:

• OEM vs. MRO vs. Integrated Supply:
  • OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): 
    • An Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) is a company that designs and/or manufactures products or components that are used in another company’s end product, which may be marketed under that company’s brand name. An OEM can produce complete systems or individual components.
    • The term OEM usually refers to original, specification-compliant parts used in the initial production of equipment, whereas aftermarket refers to third-party products used as replacements or upgrades after the original sale.
• MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Operations):
  • MRO refers to all the activities and supplies needed to keep a company’s operations, facilities, and equipment running efficiently and safely.
  • These are supplies used to support production but that do not become part of the final product.
  • Examples of MRO items include:
    • Maintenance tools
    • Replacement/spare parts
    • Personal protective equipment (PPE)
    • Cleaning and facility supplies
    • Office and operational consumables
• Integrated Supply:
  • Integrated Supply is a service-based, end-to-end supply chain solution for managing MRO procurement and inventory in a more efficient and digitally connected way.
  • The goal is to:
    • reduce total cost of ownership (TCO)
    • improve response time and availability
    • optimize inventory levels (often vendor-managed inventory, VMI)
    • increase operational efficiency
  • It typically involves:
    • on-site or embedded supplier presence
    • digital integration between supplier and customer systems (ERP, inventory)
    • real-time data sharing (inventory levels, consumption, orders)
  • For example, a supplier’s system may be integrated with a buyer’s system to provide real-time visibility and automated replenishment of MRO items.
• => OEM vs. MRO vs. Integrated Supply:
  • OEM: Builds/designs the product (or core components)
  • MRO: Keeps operations running (non-production supplies)
  • Integrated Supply: Optimizes how MRO is sourced, managed, and delivered

 

 

 

• Supply Chain: 
  • A supply chain is the end-to-end network of individuals, organizations, resources, activities, data, and technologies involved in the creation and delivery of a product or service—from raw materials to the final customer.
  • A supply chain includes not only physical flows (goods), but also information flows and financial flows across all participants.
  • At the most fundamental level, Supply Chain Management (SCM) is the integrated planning, coordination, and optimization of the flow of:
    • goods
    • information
    • and finances
    • from raw material sourcing to final delivery.
  • At its core, SCM is not just “management of flows” but the optimization of those flows across cost, service level, speed, and risk.
  • Supply Chain vs Logistics:
    • Supply Chain: entire ecosystem (end-to-end)
    • Logistics: subset focused on movement and storage of goods

 

 

 

• Printed Circuit Board (PCB): 
  • A Printed Circuit Board (PCB) is a laminated, non-conductive substrate (often fiberglass) with etched copper pathways that mechanically support and electrically connect electronic components. Used in almost all electronics, they are found in smartphones, computers, TVs, and medical devices to connect parts via soldering.
• Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Connector: 
  • PCB connectors (interconnects) are components mounted on printed circuit boards to transmit power, data, or signals between PCBs, wires, or peripheral devices. They are crucial for creating modular, repairable, and expandable electronic systems. Key types include board-to-board, wire-to-board, and specialized connectors like USB, headers, or sockets, which are typically made from thermoplastic and conductive copper alloys.
• Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Terminal Block: 
  • PCB terminal blocks are modular, insulated electrical connectors designed to be mounted directly onto a printed circuit board (PCB). They provide a secure, semi-permanent way to connect external wires to a circuit board without the need for permanent soldering or splicing.
• Printed Circuit Board (PCB) Relay: 
  • PCB Relays (Printed Circuit Board Relays) are compact, specialized electromagnetic switches designed to mount directly onto circuit boards to control high-power loads with low-power signals. They provide vital electrical isolation between circuits, protecting sensitive components in consumer electronics, automotive systems, and industrial machinery.

 

 

 

• HVAC-R (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning – Refrigeration):
  • Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC-R) refers to the technologies, systems, and engineering disciplines used to control temperature, humidity, air quality, air movement, and refrigeration processes within residential, commercial, industrial, and institutional environments.
  • Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning is the use of various technologies to control the temperature, humidity, and indoor air quality (IAQ) of an enclosed space. Its goal is to provide thermal comfort, occupant health and safety, and acceptable indoor air quality.
  • HVAC-R involves the design, installation, operation, maintenance, repair, and optimization of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
  • The HVAC portion focuses on:
    • Heating (boilers, furnaces, heat pumps, electric heaters)
    • Ventilation (fresh air supply, exhaust air, filtration, air distribution)
    • Air Conditioning (cooling, dehumidification, temperature control)
  • The refrigeration portion focuses on:
    • Cooling and preserving products, materials, or processes at temperatures below ambient conditions
    • Applications such as cold storage, food processing, supermarkets, pharmaceutical facilities, industrial processes, and data center cooling systems
  • HVAC-R systems typically include equipment such as:
    • Chillers
    • Cooling towers
    • Air Handling Units (AHUs)
    • Rooftop Units (RTUs)
    • CRAC/CRAH units
    • Heat pumps
    • Compressors
    • Refrigeration plants
    • Ductwork and piping systems
    • Building Management Systems (BMS)

 

 

 

• Industrial Automation:
  • Industrial Automation (umbrella term) is the use of technologies such as computer software and robotics to control machinery and processes which replace human beings in performing specific functions. The functions are primarily centered on manufacturing, quality control and material handling processes.
    • Process Automation / Manufacturing:
      • Process automation (based on the nature of the raw materials and final product) is defined as the use of software and technologies to automate business processes and functions in order to accomplish defined organizational goals, such as producing a product, hiring and onboarding an employee, or providing customer service.
      • Process manufacturing utilizes chemical, physical and compositional changes to convert raw material or feedstock into a product. Process manufacturing includes industries such as cement and glass, chemicals, electric power generation, food and beverage, life sciences, metals and mining, oil and gas, pulp and paper, refining, and water and wastewater. Process manufacturing includes both continuous and batch processes.
    • Discrete Automation / Manufacturing:
      • Discrete automation (focusing on individual, quantifiable parts and products) is the production of parts that are of a quantifiable nature. That may include cell phones, soda bottles, automobiles, airplanes, toys, etc. As you know, an automobile contains many, many parts. The parts required for an automobile are also quantifiable in nature.
      • Discrete manufacturing processes include the production of individual parts as well as their assembly into a final product. Discrete manufacturing examples include automobiles, appliances, and consumer electronics.
  • Types of Automation Systems (by flexibility):
    • Fixed Automation:
      • Most basic, least flexible type of automation, ideal for high-volume, unchanging production.
      • Fixed automation systems are utilized in high volume production settings that have dedicated equipment. The equipment has fixed operation sets and is designed to perform efficiently with the operation sets. This type of automation is mainly used in discrete mass production and continuous flow systems like paint shops, distillation processes, transfer lines and conveyors. All these processes rely on mechanized machinery to perform their fixed and repetitive operations to achieve high production volumes.
    • Programmable Automation:
      • Next level of flexibility, where the system can be reprogrammed, but with a significant effort.
      • Programmable automation systems facilitate changeable operation sequences and machine configuration using electronic controls. With programmable automation, non-trivial programming efforts are required to reprogram sequence and machine operations. Since production processes are not changed often, programmable automation systems tend to be less expensive in the long run. This type of system is mainly used in low job variety and medium-to-high product volume settings. It may also be used in mass production settings like paper mills and steel rolling mills.
    • Flexible Automation:
      • Most advanced type of automation based on flexibility, allowing for easy, high-level changes without major reprogramming.
      • Flexible automation systems are utilized in computer-controlled flexible manufacturing systems. Human operators enter high-level commands in the form of computer codes that identify products and their location in the system’s sequence to trigger automatic lower-level changes. Every production machine receives instructions from a human-operated computer. The instructions trigger the loading and unloading of necessary tools before carrying out their computer-instructed processes. Once processing is completed, the end products are transferred to the next machine automatically. Flexible industrial automation is used in batch processes and job shops with high product varieties and low-to-medium job volumes.
  • Advanced and Integrated Concepts (most complex):
    • Integrated Automation:
      • Takes flexible automation to the next level by explaining how an entire plant’s processes, from manufacturing to business operations, are linked under a single computer-controlled system.
      • Integrated industrial automation involves the total automation of manufacturing plants where all processes function under digital information processing coordination and computer control. It comprises technologies like:
        • Computer-aided process planning
        • Computer-supported design and manufacturing
        • Flexible machine systems
        • Computer numerical control machine tools
        • Automated material handling systems, like robots
        • Automatic storage and retrieval systems
        • Computerized production and scheduling control
        • Automated conveyors and cranes
      • Additionally, an integrated automation system can integrate a business system via a common database. That is, it supports the full integration of management operations and processes using communication and information technologies. Such technologies are utilized in computer integrated manufacturing and advanced process automation systems.
    • Smart Manufacturing (SM):
      • Modern evolution of automation, driven by data and connectivity.
      • Technology-driven approach that utilizes Internet-connected machinery to monitor the production process. The goal of SM is to identify opportunities for automating operations and use data analytics to improve manufacturing performance.
      • An example of what the cloud can do for smart manufacturing is the Volkswagen Industrial Cloud, which combines all data from 122 Volkswagen Group facilities and processes it in real time to make improvements.
    • Hybrid Automation / Manufacturing:
      • Combines different approaches, showing how both additive and subtractive manufacturing can be integrated into one process. It also introduces the “hybrid” method for implementing automation projects.
      • The Hybrid Automation Method follows two guiding principles: Implementing robust automation solutions that are easy and affordable for organisations to maintain. Realising process efficiency rapidly by reducing project overheads and time-to-value.
      • Hybrid manufacturing is a combination of additive manufacturing (AM) and subtractive manufacturing within the same machine.
    • Additive Manufacturing (AM):
      • Key technology of one of the core components of the “hybrid” approach.
      • Additive manufacturing is the process of creating an object by building it one layer at a time. It is the opposite of subtractive manufacturing, in which an object is created by cutting away at a solid block of material until the final product is complete.
      • Operators across a variety of different manufacturing industries utilize additive manufacturing in various ways. For instance: Medical device manufacturers use 3D printing to develop high variance products such as dental implants.
      • The term “additive manufacturing” refers to the creation of objects by “adding” material. Therefore, 3D printing is a form of additive manufacturing. When an object is created by adding material — as opposed to removing material — it’s considered additive manufacturing.