Can SCADA Systems Make the Manufacturing Industry Smarter?

Updated on :October 15, 2023
By :Jason Adams

Introduction

Since the first industrial revolution in 1760, the shift from agriculture to industries resulted in numerous technological developments. Huge transformations were seen in various sectors such as manufacturing, oil/gas, power, etc. which boosted the new product developments. This growth became exponential after Industry 4.0 which allowed the use of advanced technologies like IoT in the industrial manufacturing and distribution processes. Due to this, the adoption of automation, machine learning, real data, and integration in the industrial and business sectors increased very much bringing more efficiency to the business processes.

While some organizations are still implementing Industry 4.0 in their business processes, many have started working on Industry 5.0. At present, Industry 5.0 needs the integration of digital technologies in a sustainable way for reaching maximum potential, while lowering their operational costs and reducing environmental impact. 

In this essence, a SCADA system is one such innovative tool that is strengthening the efficiency and effectiveness of business processes. This increased efficiency directly assists in lowering the cost and resources. SCADA systems can increase business agility and sustainability through which businesses can effectively adapt to the latest technologies which also lowers the environmental impact on society.

But the question is “how effective are these SCADA systems in the Manufacturing sector?” Here, in this blog, let's take a look at SCADA systems and their applications in the broader business landscape.

What is a SCADA system?

Supervisory control and data acquisition (SCADA)  is a control system architecture for supervising high-level industrial processes and machines. The system has evolved over these many years - from the first generation to the fourth, or more recently predicted towards the fifth generation SCADA. From a monolithic form to an interconnected form, and currently proceeding towards the 5G secure wireless system. SCADA consists of network data communications, computers, and graphical user interfaces for process control and monitoring. SCADA systems are hugely assisting the implementation of industrial automation taking it to a whole new level. It also includes sensors, programmable logic controllers, and other peripheral devices which interact with the machines and process plant.

What is SCADA System and its Evolution

Different components of the SCADA system, such as network modules and computer systems, coordinate with each other to enhance the business output. The SCADA computer system handles the operator interfaces issuing process commands and their monitoring. The network modules perform subordinated operations such as controller calculations and real-time control logic after acquiring the data from field sensors.

The global SCADA system market is growing at a rapid pace to reach projected revenue of $14.2 billion by 2027 growing at a CAGR of 7.8%.

SCADA System Market Size

Source: Technavio

This huge growth is directly attributed to the benefits offered by these systems. SCADA systems are majorly used to automate, monitor, and control industrial processes where human presence may be proved fatal or dangerous. These systems offer access to real-time information regarding the different processes through which management can make data-driven decisions for their business. The system is widely used for industrial, infrastructure, and private systems.

Types of Modern SCADA Systems

Open-source SCADA System

These systems allow businesses and developers to develop new products from existing open-source software. The open-source SCADA platforms give licenses to firms that help developers, integrators, and end users save their costs, effort, and time. Rapid SCADA, Ignition SCADA, FactoryStudio, etc., are popular open-source platforms for industrial process control and supervision.

Mobile SCADA System

These are third-generation systems in which a mobile device is used for supervising, monitoring, and controlling the SCADA architecture installed at the facilities. Usually, mobile apps are used in these systems that are designed after carefully considering the mobile capabilities and screen sizes. A mobile SCADA system app gives remote access to the facility to the users and can work on iPads, mobiles, tablets, etc. Some benefits of a mobile SCADA system are as follows:

  • Increased efficiency
  • Improved flexibility
  • Reduced operational costs
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Quick traceability

Mobile SCADA Systems

Cloud-based SCADA System

These are the next-generation SCADA systems in which the data from the sensors and network modules is sent to secure cloud storage. The operators can easily access the cloud data from their computers to make the necessary process adjustments. Cloud-based infrastructure systems are comparatively cheaper and more secure than other types owing to which the market is expected to reach $447.53 Billion by 2030. The cloud-based systems are also an ideal choice for enhanced industrial automation. Business firms don’t need to buy the infrastructure and tools, which saves their operational and maintenance costs. In addition, cloud systems offer more robust security and privacy measures which reduces data theft/tampering issues.

Cloud-based SCADA System

Key Functions of a SCADA system

SCADA systems perform various functions to properly manage remote facilities and plants. Four of these critical functions are as follows:

Data Acquisition

The key function of a SCADA system is to properly acquire the data from sensors and other devices planted in the field. Fields or plants employ multiple sensors that measure different parameters of a process such as flow rate, temperature, weight, pressure, etc. Then, this raw measured data is sent to a programmable logic controller(PLC) which converts it into meaningful information or digital format. This information is then forwarded to a human-machine interface(HMI) where the data is analyzed for decision-making by the human operator. 

The majority of the SCADA system does not understand analog data. Due to this, the PLC converts the analog data received from sensors to digital units such as temperature into celsius, signal strength into dBm, etc. Through this, reliable and valid data can be acquired for better decision-making.

Networked Data Communication

A SCADA system uses wireless or wired network technologies to transmit data across different operators and machines. The networks allow control of multiple systems and processes from a single or centralized location. A typical SCADA system mainly utilizes communication protocols such as distributed network protocol, Modbus, IEC 60870-5, etc.  However, some systems also use vendor-specific proprietary protocols based on the system requirements. To connect multiple systems and processes, SCADA systems generally use local area networks for small regions and wide area networks for far regions. 

Data Presentation

Human-machine interface displays the data to human operators in an understandable manner after acquiring it from the sensors. It monitors all the processes and raises an alarm when processes do not function within the defined operational range. This alarm is raised in the form of lights, sounds, messages, etc., which alerts the human operators. The HMIs have access to historical and current data which can be used to devise strategies for continuously improving business performance.

Monitoring/Controlling

SCADA systems are programmed to remotely control the processes using switches for enabling the operators to easily turn on/off the processes based on their needs. The systems are also capable of performing specific control functions as per the data gathered through sensors. These control systems can easily manage functions including; adjusting temperature, routing power, increasing/reducing the speed of functions, etc. SCADA systems can also automate the monitoring of some processes as per user-defined setpoints, whereas some processes still need human intervention. For example, the SCADA system can automatically open the release valve in case of pressure building in a gas pipeline.

Alarms

This is another major function of a SCADA system for letting the operators know about what’s happening in the field or processes. An alarm in the form of a message, email, or notification is sent to the operator whenever required. This alarm is received and viewed through the Human machine interface which displays the data. Different types of alarms used by SCADA systems are controller alarms, substation alarms, equipment-related alarms, etc.

Reporting

SCADA systems are also helpful in automating reports from the system’s data replacing manual export of data. It is one of the most underestimated functions of the SCADA systems for developing performance-based analytical reports. SCADA systems also allow the scheduling of reports for keeping the operators informed about the progress. In addition, SCADA systems can also provide condition-based and triggered events reports to track trends.

Components of SCADA

SCADA systems utilize multiple software and hardware components to properly control and monitor plants and industries. These components coordinate with each other closely to ensure the transmission of reliable and valid data to SCADA systems. A typical SCADA system consists of 4 major components as follows:

Components of SCADA

Remote Terminal Unit (RTU)

An RTU is also called the data control and acquisition unit placed in the field or plant. These units capture and transfer the data from processing equipment installed at remote locations to the central location. RTUs act as local collection points that collect the information and reports from sensors and deliver the commands to control systems. In absence of wired communication, wireless radios are used to convey messages across RTU and central locations.

Programmable Logic Controller (PLC)

PLC is the fastest-growing segment which is expected to grasp 30% of the total SCADA market by 2030. These are used in SCADA systems to convert analog signals and data from sensors to digital formats. Examples include temperature in celsius, signal strength in dBm, etc. The PLCs are attached to the sensors and are often preferred over the RTUs because of their versatility, affordability, and flexibility. These controllers can efficiently control complex industrial processes resulting in enhanced business productivity. 

Sensors

These are the smart devices or inputs which are capable of transmitting the data to other functional units such as PLCs, RTUs, etc. Both analog and digital sensors are used in the SCADA systems directly responsible for interacting with the main server or central location. The sensors measure and control the different parameters of the machines and processes such as adjusting temperature, air flow, power on/off, etc. In addition, these inputs or sensors can handle the simple and complex commands associated with process management.

Actuators

These are parts or components capable of controlling the whole moving mechanism of the device. Actuators are powered by an energy source that converts the control signals into a mechanical movement for ensuring the continued functioning of the device. Actuators are different from sensors and often called inverse sensors. It acts as a dial, switch, or control valve for controlling the devices in SCADA systems.

Supervisory Controllers

It is the core of a SCADA system that receives the process data and sends control commands to the field devices. In small SCADA systems, supervisory controllers can be single PC or HMI. In Big systems, supervisory controller systems can include multiple HMIs, multiple servers, distributed software applications, etc. 

Communication Interface

It is one of the most crucial components of a SCADA system for an effective monitoring and controlling system. It ensures proper interaction across different systems and devices such as RTU, sensors, HMI, etc. Modern SCADA systems normally use SONET and LAN for quick and easy SCADA communication.

Human-Machine Interface (HMI)

Human-machine interface is a very critical component of modern SCADA systems. It displays the information collected from different components like sensors. The information is displayed in an easy and understandable manner in the form of symbols, tables, data charts, performance reports, etc. A well-built high performance based HMI is very critical for industries in improving performance while reducing the time spent on the processes. Human operators can quickly analyze and apprehend the data displayed on HMIs to make uniform decisions. 

According to Bernard Cubizolles, Global Product Marketing Manager at GE Digital, “Operators using new, high-performance HMI/SCADA software can spend less time navigating, find critical data faster, and increase productivity.”

Applications of SCADA

Applications of SCADA

Food and Beverages

The F&B industry is serving a huge number of customers globally. Due to this, they often encounter issues associated with production, food quality, etc. SCADA systems are assisting F&B businesses in mitigating these issues. SCADA is used to control and monitor almost all processes of the F&B companies i.e. from enhanced packaging processes to manufacturing and recipe recreation. For example, Prima Frutta, a California-based cherry producer, increased the production capacity by 50% after installing SCADA in the production line.

Uses of SCADA in F&B Industry

Apart from increased production, F&B businesses are also leveraging SCADA technology to monitor and control the temperature required in food processing, documenting critical insights to ensure compliance with industry standards, maintaining supply and demand, etc. Due to these benefits, the use of SCADA systems in the F&B sector is expected to grow substantially in the upcoming years, directly enhancing user experience and satisfaction.

Water Treatment

Operating an old water treatment system is a challenging task as it took a lot of effort, time, and staff for functioning. In addition, other issues associated with leakage, tank filling, regulating water pressure, etc. were also common in traditional systems. However, modern SCADA systems can help private and public organizations in eliminating such challenges. One fine example of such an application is Coca-Cola. By installing SCADA in the bottling plant, the company increased influent quality and supply capacity by 30% in the water treatment process. 

Modern SCADA systems are improving the functioning of water systems including valves, pumps, tanks, etc. These systems can control and monitor the water being pumped at the water treatment plants, filling the overhead storage tanks, monitoring water capacities, pipe pressure, water level, etc. in reservoirs. The future of SCADA systems in water treatment can bring new changes in the efficiency of managing the water systems, therefore, preventing water shortages and other issues. Technologies such as AI, ML, and deep learning could improve the functioning of water systems in urban areas by detecting real-time issues and effluent flow.

Oil and Gas

The oil and gas industry is the major driving force behind rapid economic growth. However, this industry is also a liability in terms of environmental pollution, safety hazards, etc. Whenever any leak or issue occurs in the pipeline, it drastically impacts the natural ecosystem and nearby areas. SCADA systems prevent such issues while improving the functioning and performance of the Oil and Gas business processes. 

It allows businesses to remotely control and monitor the different functions such as pumps, onshore wells, storages, pipelines, etc. Through this, errors and leakage in the processes can be easily identified and waste disposal can be optimized which reduces the environmental impact caused by the oil and gas businesses. For example, New Sky Energy, a US-based firm, reduced the chemical purchasing and waste disposal costs by 90% using SCADA. Cloud-based SCADA systems are rapidly gaining traction in the oil and gas industry which will further reduce maintenance costs and provide better flexibility in the upcoming years.

Manufacturing

An estimated 4 million jobs in manufacturing will be needed by 2030 and out of these 4 million, only 1.9 million jobs may be fulfilled. In addition, the population is rapidly growing owing to which manufacturing facilities are facing issues in meeting the demand. However, SCADA systems can help manufacturing businesses in avoiding these challenges while improving their productivity. It also helps in coherently managing parts lists, regulating industrial robots, monitoring temperature and pressure, etc., to quickly meet the output goals. 

SCADA systems are allowing manufacturing firms to manage their inventory and processes in a more controlled and synchronous manner. For example, Country Maid Inc., a US-based manufacturer reduced their product mixing time by 23%. The SCADA system by Rockwell Automation almost doubled its output by improving the line feed. SCADA is enabling the proper implementation of just-in-time inventory control along with real-time monitoring and control capabilities. New advancements in SCADA systems are expected in the upcoming years which will bring immense growth and expansion opportunities for manufacturing businesses.

Electric Utilities

Electricity is very crucial at present times which is also scarce in nature. In addition, electricity companies serve multiple regions and grids. Due to this, electricity plants need to respond immediately to power fluctuations and failures which could be done using SCADA systems. SCADA is heavily used to monitor almost all phases of electric utilities from generation to transmission and distribution systems. These systems can measure and control the power flowing through transmission lines to reduce any unexpected power loss. SCADA systems are also used to automate the signals to manage and monitor the railed road crossing gate and traffic. 

SCADA systems are playing a very pivotal role in the energy management and smart grid services provided by Eaas companies. EaaS companies need to monitor multiple parameters of the entire grid such as voltage regulation, frequency, outage, etc. which is a hectic and dangerous task. Energy loss is the most encountered challenge for 44.5% of EaaS companies which has been eliminated using SCADA systems. SCADA systems allow access to historical and real-time data to determine the potential touchpoints of energy loss.

Why is SCADA Critical to the Manufacturing Industry?

The manufacturing industry has been utilizing SCADA systems for decades. Over time, the systems kept evolving owing to the new challenges and changing user requirements, but never became obsolete. This is because of the benefits SCADA offers to businesses and end users. Below are some major benefits of SCADA systems. 

Benefits of Modern SCADA Systems

Benefits of Modern SCADA Systems

Better Asset Management

Asset management refers to the systematic process of maintaining and monitoring assets to utilize them efficiently. SCADA systems often integrate functionalities of other tools such as data visualization software, ERP software, and fixed asset management software to better manage manufacturing assets. A well-developed SCADA system can monitor and control different manufacturing assets like equipment, machinery, infrastructure, etc., to keep performance high and downtime low. 

SCADA systems can monitor the asset performance on a real-time basis to early detect issues. In addition, it also enables remote-controlled access to the assets so that operators can respond quickly to problems. SCADA also allows business firms to acquire historical data for analytical purposes to better manage assets. 

Efficient Operations Management

This is another significant benefit offered by SCADA systems for achieving the maximum possible process efficiency. SCADA systems look after different machines and processes on a real-time basis. Due to this, whenever the processes function abnormally, i.e., outside of their defined logic, an alert is sent to the operator who then makes it normal again. This automation ensures the continued functioning of the system and very few operational errors leading to greater operational efficiency. SCADA brings integrated transparency in the manufacturing units for efficient operations management.

Data-Driven Decision Making

Data-Driven Decision Making

SCADA systems provide critical real-time information to the manufacturers which influences their decision-making procedure. Through this information, they can make informed and up-to-date decisions about their manufacturing process. In addition, SCADA systems also collect valuable information associated with processes to identify patterns, trends, or anomalies for process optimization, cost reduction, and product quality improvements. SCADA systems also provide easy and actionable insights to the operators instead of basic information for better decision-making.

Real-Time Optimization

SCADA systems provide real-time information on the manufacturing processes to human operators. Through this information, operators can determine the system's performance and can make suitable adjustments to it on a real-time basis. SCADA systems also offer access to historical records collected through real-time data for checking potential issues and eliminating them. This real-time optimization is helpful for manufacturing enterprises in attaining enhanced process efficiency and quality control.

Remote Management

Manufacturing firms employ numerous equipment and machines in their operations whose manual monitoring is a complicated task. However, SCADA systems made it simple because they are designed to remotely control and monitor these numerous machines from a single location. This is also beneficial in eliminating the risk of health danger to the workers engaged on these machines. In addition, this remote control access helps maintain the efficiency of the processes in absence of human resources.

Reduced Costs and Efforts

Nearly 32% of the total operational costs can be reduced by the automation of repetitive processes. SCADA helps automate numerous manufacturing tasks to ensure their consistent running. This reduces the efforts of the human operators as they don’t need to invest their efforts in repetitive processes. In addition, SCADA systems offer reduced energy and wastage costs which reduce the operational budget for the manufacturing firms. 

Moreover, SCADA systems can turn complex jobs into easy ones due to which businesses don't need to hire more workers or provide them with training sessions. This also reduces the cost for the company which can be invested in other business areas.

Preventive Maintenance

Leading Maintenance Strategies by Industries Worldwide

Source: ATS

Preventive maintenance is used by around 88% of manufacturing plants in 2021 for reducing downtime in manufacturing functions. In this, machine failures are anticipated by the human operators to eliminate potential issues which can influence production. In addition, historical data is used to determine the root cause of the failures so that a more systematic approach to maintenance can be followed. This systematic approach to maintenance allows businesses in improving the reliability, uptime, and availability of manufacturing equipment.

Scalability

Modern SCADA systems are more advanced having more capabilities and functionalities when compared to legacy systems. Such SCADA systems also support more hardware and software with added functionalities for better scalability. In addition, SCADA systems provide flexible configurations of the processes through which businesses can easily meet the increasing workload or demand in the production processes. SCADA also enables remote access to manufacturing operations which further improves the scalability of the business and manufacturing processes.

Robust Control

A well-developed SCADA system comes with a robust and centralized control system. This centralized system allows operators to access the control system from anywhere i.e. remotely or on the facility. This improves the efficiency of manufacturing processes and human resources, improving overall production. SCADA systems also allow human operators to detect the fault and flaws in the processes for isolating them to reduce any negative impact. Safety interlocks are also provided by some SCADA systems for preventing hazards. 

Agility

Around 24% of manufacturing firms have improved their performance through agility in business, operations, and processes. SCADA systems provide agile control of the manufacturing process to the human operators for improved performance. This agile control brings greater value to the customers in a more efficient and sustainable manner. SCADA systems also allow real-time data access to manufacturing processes which further contributes to agile operations. In addition, through this agility, manufacturing processes, and systems can easily deal with variability in demand and production that increases efficiency. 

Interoperability

SCADA system includes multiple devices which need to communicate and interact with each other continuously. For this, SCADA systems use standard communication protocols through which smooth interaction between different devices and systems can be ensured. This helps manufacturing firms in leveraging the services and systems of different vendors with improved interoperability. In addition, manufacturers also need not completely replace their legacy systems as SCADA allows integration with legacy systems. This also increases the interoperability of the system and manufacturing processes.

Data Security

Most SCADA systems use advanced data security measures and protocols for ensuring data safety. In addition, these systems also use access control and network segmentation for eliminating the chances of unauthorized access and the spread of malware across the system. SCADA systems also record user activities for the purpose of forensic analysis and regulatory compliance. Overall a SCADA system comes with robust security features but the rising dependence on the cloud and other digital technologies could negatively influence the security if proper measures are not implemented.

Supply Chain Visibility

SCADA systems can adequately monitor various supply chain components like logistics, shipping, inventory, etc., on a real-time basis. This allows the collection, analysis, and sharing of real-time information with the operators. Through this, operators can track raw materials, production processes, shipping/delivery information, etc. for improved supply chain visibility. 

SCADA systems are integrated with functionalities of other systems like warehouse management systems, inventory management software, logistics software, etc., for flawless functioning of the supply chain. Businesses also utilize this data to optimize production output, prevent downtimes, improve the quality of products, etc.

Resource Reduction and Increased Efficiency

SCADA systems are taking industrial automation to a new level in the manufacturing processes. A SCADA system can automate different functions of manufacturing with proper monitoring and control directly improving the process efficiency. Due to this, the use of some resources such as manpower, costs, etc. can reduce upto a huge extent. In addition, this automation also reduces the amount of energy consumed in the processes and waste generated through the production process. SCADA systems can remarkably improve process efficiency which directly assists in improving business growth and productivity.

Production of Smart Products

SCADA systems allow the integration of new technologies and tools which enables the development of smart products. Technologies such as AI and IoT are increasingly being used by manufacturing firms in building data-driven smart products. Robotic automation through SCADA gives the required precision and accuracy to develop flawless smart products.

Are there any security vulnerabilities with SCADA?

Till now, cyber security threats have been drastically impacting the continuous and safe functioning of businesses, irrespective of their sizes. 42% of companies experienced cyber attacks on their companies in 2021. SCADA systems are also vulnerable to these security threats, such as Malware, DDoS attacks, web application attacks, etc. Some of these security threats are as follows:

  1. Many SCADA systems lack sufficient user and system authentication through which attackers can have uncontrolled access to the whole system. 
  2. SCADA systems often come with default and simple configurations, which makes it easier for hackers to compromise the system.
  3. Poor remote access policies allow attackers to gain backdoor access to the networks.
  4. Limited access control and invalidated sources also allow hackers to execute DoS attacks.
  5. Malware attacks are common in digital systems that can impact the system if antimalware protection is not activated in the SCADA system.
  6. Unprotected SCADA systems are also vulnerable to SQL injection and cross-site scripting attacks.

Organizations are implementing a wide range of solutions to eliminate these threats, such as access control, antivirus, multi-factor authentication, application protection, etc.

Security Vulnerabilities with SCADA

Source: checkpoint

Trends in SCADA Systems

SCADA systems are evolving with time and allowing integrations of new technologies and trends for enhanced output and productivity. Some of these trends include IoT integrations, Artificial intelligence, and predictive maintenance which are discussed below.

IoT integration

The use of IoT in SCADA systems started during the 4th industrial revolution. Since then, it has become a disruptive technology in manufacturing and other related industries. Due to this, the global IoT use in the manufacturing market is expected to cross $1.5 trillion by 2030. IoT integrated with SCADA is playing a crucial role in the manufacturing sector in terms of improved data accessibility and operability. 

IoT-integrated SCADA systems are empowering manufacturing firms through their features such as enhanced security, scalability, and interoperability in the overall infrastructure. IoT systems can also improve the operational effectiveness of the operations for enhanced asset management. Moreover, IoT-based SCADA systems are improving day by day resulting in better machine-to-machine communication, data acquisition, security, and remote management of the processes.

Predictive Maintenance

Predictive maintenance is an evolved version of traditional maintenance that is significantly contributing to the growth of SCADA systems at present. In this, the data from the field sensors is analyzed by human operators to reduce downtime and predict the failures before happening. This leads to a foolproof system capable of effective functioning of the machines and processes. Through this, manufacturing businesses can develop better products which also improves customer satisfaction and revenue of the company. In addition, predictive maintenance also improves equipment uptime which enhances the total productive maintenance in real-time.

Artificial Intelligence

The manufacturing sector is rapidly deploying Artificial intelligence in their processes. Owing to this, the AI market in manufacturing is estimated to reach up to $17.9 billion by 2028 from $1.4 billion in 2021. AI through SCADA systems is taking manufacturing and other industrial processes to the next level in terms of enhanced productivity, avoiding errors, and optimizing costs. Through this technology, trends, and patterns are identified from the data to anticipate potential problems. New changes can also be done in the system using these trends and patterns for maximizing performance. 

Future of SCADA Systems in Manufacturing

The manufacturing sector saw an incredible transformation in the last few decades due to SCADA systems. These systems kept evolving over time to match the dynamic user needs. In addition, Industry 4.0 and 5.0 are rapidly implemented in the manufacturing businesses which demand infrastructure upgrades for smooth functioning. New upgrades in the manufacturing and SCADA systems are required to prevent potential challenges associated with security, data acquisition, and other manufacturing aspects as well as to ensure better market growth. 

5G infrastructure is expanding rapidly and this expansion can positively contribute to the growth of SCADA systems in manufacturing. The benefits of 5G such as low latency, high speed, high reliability, etc. will allow improved communication across different systems of SCADA. In addition, 5G could also lead to the development of virtual networks tailored to the manufacturing sector bringing more process efficiency and reduced costs.

Digital technologies such as AI, IoT, blockchain, open system architecture, etc. are integrated with modern SCADA systems to enhance the effectiveness of the manufacturing processes. These digital technologies are rapidly evolving leading to new advancements in terms of features and accessibility which can assist the SCADA systems in making manufacturing more seamless and smooth. Leveraging these technologies will allow manufacturers in every industry to enable better visualization of data, react to problems, change the configurations, track information, etc. which will directly influence their growth.

According to Copa-Data, a specialist in Industrial automation software, “SCADA technology is shifting from a tool for monitoring and data capture to the technology shaping the smart factories of the future. One of the crucial ways this is achieved is the use of SCADA with open system architecture.”

With the rising environmental concerns of manufacturing, more and more businesses are implementing SCADA systems. These systems are designed for efficient industrial automation for a better and sustainable future.  New innovations in environmentally safe technologies are also contributing to the growth of SCADA systems. This is because modern SCADA systems are supporting integrations with more and more technologies over time. Value-based businesses will also play a key role in the growth of SCADA systems in the future due to their prioritization of social and environmental responsibility over profit.

SCADA systems can greatly improve the performance, durability, and reliability of manufacturing processes if implemented properly as per business requirements. More research and development efforts are required in the SCADA systems to enhance the user interface and experience while preventing any critical issues in the overall processes. This is to improve device independence and multi-vendor interoperability in manufacturing firms for better data structuring, information modeling, and compliance with industry standards.

Conclusion

Supervisory control and data acquisition systems are allowing different industries and sectors to monitor their industrial processes in a better way. The implementation of SCADA users in manufacturing is rapidly increasing and hugely contributing to improving process efficiency and productivity. Manufacturing firms can check the most reliable and up-to-date list of the best SCADA software to achieve a highly competitive edge in the industry.

Jason Adams
Jason Adams

Jason Adams is a content writer with a keen interest to continue learning and develop his research abilities. An avid reader and an eye toward growth, he is associated with GoodFirms, a frontline and evolving reviews and rating platform.

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