Industrial automation has expanded well beyond the factory floor. Manufacturers across Western Canada are using automated systems to handle welding, cladding, cutting, inspection, material handling, and process control — applications that were manual-only a generation ago.
A few trends driving adoption:
Labour Availability and Cost
Many manufacturers are automating because skilled trades are harder to find and retain. A purpose-built welding machine or cladding system can run consistently across shifts without the variability or turnover risk of a manual operation. The economics have shifted — automation is no longer just for high-volume applications.
Custom Machines for Non-Standard Parts
Off-the-shelf automation doesn’t work for every application. When parts are large, irregular, or built to unique specifications, a standard robot cell won’t fit the process. Custom machine builders like BP Automation engineer equipment around the specific part — fixturing, motion, tooling, and controls designed for that production problem.
Controls and Data Integration
Modern automation systems collect process data in real time — weld parameters, cycle times, sensor readings, error logs. Manufacturers are using this data to improve consistency, diagnose problems faster, and reduce scrap. PLC and HMI systems have become standard even on relatively simple machines.
Retrofits Over Replacement
Not every automation project starts from scratch. Many manufacturers are retrofitting existing equipment with new controls, safety systems, or automation components to extend machine life and improve performance without buying new iron.
BP Automation works with manufacturers across Western Canada on all of these applications — from single-axis automated welding fixtures to complete multi-robot production cells. Contact us to discuss your application.
