How private 5G is driving the evolution of smart manufacturing

An industry facing multiple challenges

Today, manufacturers face multiple challenges including labour shortages, with the industry remaining significantly short of skilled workers. Supply chain issues persist, including sourcing bottlenecks, global logistics backlogs, cost pressures, and mounting cyberattacks. Streamlining procurement, sourcing and maintaining margins, while also making sustainability a core pillar of business, are all top of mind for manufacturers. 

However, despite these challenges, the manufacturing industry continues to surpass expectations. Technology is key to maintaining competitiveness as manufacturers look to embrace digital transformation by investing in smart manufacturing, including automation, data analytics, and advanced connectivity solutions. These technologies can enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and streamline operations while improving product quality, as many organisations look to implement Industry 4.0 principles to create agile and interconnected factories. 

Smart manufacturing optimises processes, enhances productivity, and enables real-time decision-making. And one of the key technologies enabling manufacturing organisations to navigate these challenges and turn risks into opportunities is private 5G networks.

Manufacturing is leading the way in private 5G adoption

According to ABI Research, manufacturing will account for an estimated 49 million private 5G connections worldwide by 2030. Likewise, analyst firm Omdia’s Private LTE and 5G 2023 Networks Tracker highlighted that manufacturing was one of the leading verticals for private 5G, accounting for 23% of all network rollouts.

This is because 5G private networks enable real-time monitoring and control of machinery, improving operational efficiency, and enabling predictive maintenance. With reduced latency and higher reliability, manufacturers can optimise their processes, enhance worker safety, and achieve higher levels of automation. Recent VDC research indicates that the top limitations for manufacturers’ current networks are security, speed, performance, and reliability – all of which can be bridged through the deployment of 5G private networks. 

Private 5G networks  stand out as the foremost choice in connectivity technology when it comes to its application in manufacturing environments. Its exceptional performance and the ability to facilitate mobility across expansive and intricate environments, including partitioned spaces and multi-floor setups, make it a versatile and dependable option.