robot manufacturing

Welcome to the new year! With 2017 gone, manufacturers are now looking to what 2018 will bring to the industry. As precision spring manufacturers, we are keeping on eye on what new trends, technology and other industry insights will be prominent in 2018. Most importantly, we are excited for what the future holds.

Here are a few things manufacturers can look forward to in 2018:

#1: Another Strong Year

2017 was a big year for manufacturers, the best since 2004, according to a Bloomberg report. Surveys and studies from last year show that U.S. manufacturing had its best year since 2004. Some of the highlights include:

  • Growth in 16 of 18 surveyed industries
  • Machinery and computer and electronic products leading the way in growth
  • Export orders increase to 58.6, a six-month high
  • Index of prices paid rose to 69 from 65.5
  • Factory index increased to 59.7 from 58.2
  • Gauge of new orders rose to 69.4, a 14-year high
  • Measure of production also increased to 65.8 from 63.9

#2: New Technology

Advances in manufacturing technology is always something to look forward to. Here are a few technological advancements that are in store for 2018:

  • The Internet of Things (IoT) will continue to link all processes and devices within manufacturing facilities.
  • Cloud technology will continue to become faster, more secure and easier to use.
  • Automation and robotics will automate redundant processes, opening up engineers to focus on more crucial tasks.
  • Industry 4.0 will connect all forms of manufacturing technology, allowing OEMs to become faster, more efficient and safer.
  • Augmented reality, 3D printing and other innovative technologies will become more prominent.

#3: New Partnerships

One of the things we are looking forward to most is forming new partnerships across many industries. We already serve more than 1,000 different customers and companies across dozens of industries, and we look forward to adding to that number over the next year. Partnerships is an important aspect of manufacturing, especially when it comes to the necessary parts OEMs need to create their products. If you use springs or wire forms in any application, contact us today and tell us what you need. We look forward to working with you.