Advanced Contract Manufacturing Automation Services Explained

Manufacturing automation includes fixed automation (dedicated equipment for high-volume production), programmable automation (equipment that can be reprogrammed for different products), flexible automation (systems that can switch between tasks with minimal downtime), and integrated automation (connected systems using IIoT, machine monitoring, and data analytics). Excellerant specializes in integrated automation solutions that connect CNC machines, track performance in real-time, and enable data-driven manufacturing decisions.

The five levels are: Level 1 (Device Level) - sensors and actuators on machines; Level 2 (Control Level) - PLCs and machine controllers; Level 3 (Supervisory Level) - SCADA systems and HMIs; Level 4 (Planning Level) - MES and production management; Level 5 (Enterprise Level) - ERP and business systems. Excellerant's platform bridges these levels, connecting shop floor machines (Levels 1-2) with supervisory monitoring (Level 3) and integrating seamlessly with MES/ERP systems (Levels 4-5).

Automation investment varies based on facility size, number of machines, and desired functionality. Excellerant offers scalable solutions with unlimited client access and no per-user licensing fees, making expansion cost-effective. Most manufacturers see ROI within 6-12 months through reduced downtime, eliminated manual data collection, improved OEE, and better resource utilization. Contact us for a customized assessment and pricing based on your specific operation.

Yes, absolutely. Excellerant specializes in universal connectivity that works with any machine—regardless of brand, age, or control type. For legacy equipment, we connect through serial communications or by adding PLCs as intermediary devices. This means you can automate your entire shop floor without replacing functional equipment, protecting your capital investment while gaining modern monitoring capabilities.

Overall Equipment Effectiveness (OEE) measures manufacturing productivity by calculating Availability × Performance × Quality. It reveals how effectively your equipment performs compared to its full potential. For contract manufacturers, OEE provides objective data to identify improvement opportunities, justify capital investments, demonstrate value to customers, and systematically reduce waste. Excellerant's platform automatically calculates OEE in real-time for every machine.

Implementation timelines depend on facility size and complexity. A typical installation connecting 10-20 machines and implementing core monitoring features takes 2-4 weeks, including hardware setup, software configuration, and operator training. Excellerant's browser-based platform requires only a single server installation, and our experienced technical team ensures smooth deployment with minimal disruption to your production schedule.

Yes. Excellerant provides seamless bi-directional integration with major ERP and MES platforms including SAP, Oracle, and others through our Open API. Real-time shop floor data automatically flows into your business systems, eliminating manual data entry and ensuring accurate production reporting. This integration bridges the gap between manufacturing operations and business management, enabling better forecasting and decision-making.

Excellerant provides comprehensive USA-based technical support from our Connecticut headquarters. Our team includes experienced manufacturing professionals who understand both the technology and shop floor operations. Support includes remote troubleshooting, software updates, ongoing training resources, and access to our technical experts during business hours. We also offer optional on-site service visits and customized training programs.