For manufacturers, engineers, and maintenance teams, finding the right industrial automation supplier can make a huge difference. When a PLC fails, a drive needs replacing, or an older machine requires a discontinued component, having a reliable source for the right part can help to minimize downtime, which can otherwise cost a lot.
The industrial automation market is also broad. Some suppliers take the time to specialize in new equipment from major manufacturers, where others focus on obsolete, refurbished, or surplus components. There are also other companies that combine supplying parts with repair services, technical support, and other solutions.
This means that no single supplier will be the best choice for every business. You need to consider all of the factors before you go ahead and make a decision, which is where we come in. We’ve rounded up some of the best industrial automation suppliers worth considering this year so that you don’t have to go scouring the internet. Here’s what we think of them.
EU Automation
If you’re looking for a specialist supplier of industrial automation and control equipment, EU Automation should be one of the top contenders. They help manufacturers and engineering teams source components for both current and older systems. Their range is extensive, working with a wide range of established manufacturers, and going from there.
One of their key selling points though is their focus on obsolete, discontinued, and hard to find components. This can be very useful for businesses that are operating with older machinery, and replacing an entire system for the failure of one component is going to be ridiculously expensive.
On top of this, they offer new equipment, as well as refurbished and reconditioned equipment, as well as repairs and a service exchange program. This gives customers a lot of options to consider if they don’t want to go down the standard brand new component route. With their operation being international, they are a strong option for businesses that need specialist parts across various markets.
Pros:
- They have a huge focus on obsolete parts, making it perfect for those who require parts for their older pieces of machinery
- They also offer a service exchange program where they can hand back their failed components
- Their international reach makes them a fantastic choice for companies around the world
- They also have a fantastic product range to ensure they are able to cater to as many people as possible
Cons:
- The price of obsolete or difficult to source products can vary depending on availability or demand
- Availability changes constantly, so what is available one minute might not always be available the next
- Some companies want common, readily available components, which means that EU Automation may be a little too much for them
Automation24
Automation24 is an online supplier specializing in industrial automation technology. They offer products for factory automation, process automation, and safety applications. The UK online shop stocks more than 10,000 products, covering a whole range of areas to ensure that they are able to appeal to as many people as possible.
This company takes a slightly different approach from suppliers that focus on obsolete components. They focus on new automation equipment, with products supplied in their original manufacturer packaging to verify their authenticity. They work with brands such as WIKA, Eaton, ifm, and more.
Automation24 says that its prices average around 24% below manufacturer recommended retail prices, while their warehouse holds more than 300,000 products, allowing them to dispatch quickly. They operate an online first model, and it works well for them. They also offer a product comparison tool, technical support, and more.
Pros:
- Products are new and in their original packaging, which may appeal to those who specifically need new equipment
- They are working with well known manufacturers, with their catalogue having some big names
- They are also able to offer fast dispatch due to their extensive stock on the items they offer, and their efficiency
- They are one of the best when it comes to competitive pricing, and you don’t have to do a large minimum order to receive it
- They have a range of useful online tools, including technical support
Cons:
- Businesses looking for discontinued or obsolete parts may not find them here
- If someone prefers a face to face procurement process, they won’t have that here
- Not every product is going to be immediately available even though they have a large amount of stock
MRO Electric
MRO Electric and Supply focuses on industrial automation equipment, replacement parts, and repair services. With over 20 years operating in the industry, they are now able to supply automation products to customers all over the world. Their catalogue covers a wide range of equipment, ensuring that they are able to provide their services to as many people as possible.
They work with products from major industrial automation manufacturers including FANUC, KUKA, ABB, and more. As such, teams looking for replacements for these specific manufacturers are going to find MRO Electric an appealing option.
There is also quite a large focus on repair and remanufacturing with this company, as technicians are able to repair certain pieces of equipment.
Pros:
- They have a wide range of products to choose from, making it a near all in one solution
- They work with a number of major manufacturers
- Repair services are one of their most popular ways to avoid people needing to replace a whole unit because of one component
- Fast shipping options available
- Rapid quote responses, the company says they can do this during business hours within 10 minutes
Cons:
- They are not an authorised manufacturer distributor – businesses with specific procurement requirements need to consider this before making a purchase
- Availability can vary depending on the component
- Components will still need checking for compatibility – never assume
We hope that you’ve found this article helpful, and now see some of the companies that you should be considering here. We know that sometimes it’s hard to find the company that’s right for you, but we’re confident they are in this list.
