Ken's Foods Cuts End-of-Line Costs by 17% with Rockwell Automation Overhaul
Event summary
- Ken's Foods implemented Rockwell Automation’s on-machine architecture, reducing cabling and simplifying maintenance.
- The upgrade included PowerFlex 350 variable frequency drives (VFDs) directly accessible on production equipment.
- The system delivered a 17% cost savings compared to traditional cabinet-based automation.
- Ken's Foods now plans to standardize the on-machine architecture for future pallet-conveying systems.
The big picture
Rockwell Automation’s solution addresses long-standing inefficiencies in end-of-line operations, particularly in industries like food and beverage where legacy equipment and complex layouts hinder performance. The shift toward on-machine architecture reflects broader trends in industrial automation, emphasizing real-time data access and simplified maintenance to enhance operational agility.
What we're watching
- Scalability Impact
- How Ken's Foods will leverage the new system to support future growth and operational flexibility.
- Industry Adoption
- Whether other food and beverage manufacturers will follow Ken’s lead in adopting on-machine automation solutions.
- Maintenance Efficiency
- The pace at which similar upgrades could reduce downtime and improve productivity across the sector.