1. What is Digital Transformation in Manufacturing?
Digital transformation in manufacturing is the process of applying advanced digital technologies to improve all or parts of the production process. Today, digital technology has penetrated nearly all industries and sectors. Therefore, if businesses do not quickly adapt and change their production operations, they may face challenges such as low productivity, poor product quality, high costs, and declining revenues.
2. Benefits of Digital Transformation for Manufacturing
While the process of digital transformation may encounter various challenges, especially in technology, human resources, and production processes, if done correctly, businesses can reap many benefits such as:
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Improving product quality: Applying precise technologies such as 3D modeling helps avoid errors in the production process, reduce material waste, and increase accuracy.
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Enhancing operational efficiency: Machinery can quickly process large amounts of data, thereby increasing productivity, reducing costs and labor requirements, and boosting profits.
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Creating a safer working environment: Smart sensors help detect and promptly alert to risks, ensuring the safety of workers.
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Timely problem-solving: Real-time systems provide continuous information and assist businesses in resolving issues quickly, improving work efficiency.
3. Top 5 Digital Transformation Trends in Manufacturing by 2025
3.1. Industrial IoT Sensors
IoT (Internet of Things) is a network of sensors and electronic devices connected to collect and share information. Industrial IoT sensors are gradually being applied in factories to optimize the production process. IoT is drastically transforming the manufacturing industry, helping monitor operations and improve efficiency. A recent survey revealed that around 63% of businesses believe adopting IoT will increase profits within the next five years.
Applications of Industrial IoT Sensors:
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Monitoring environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, oxygen levels.
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Measuring air pressure around equipment.
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Tracking the operational status of factories and equipment.
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Managing inventory.
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Monitoring energy consumption.
3.2. 3D Printing
3D printing is one of the advanced digital transformation technologies in manufacturing. This technology uses laser beams to create objects from material layers through digital data. Currently, 3D printing is primarily used for prototype and product model creation. Implementing this technology helps reduce costs and increase production efficiency.
Applications of 3D Printing:
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Aerospace industry.
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Automotive manufacturing.
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Healthcare and dentistry.
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Architecture and construction.
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Hearing aids.
3.3. Artificial Intelligence (AI), Automation, and Machine Learning (ML)
Automation has rapidly developed and is widely applied across various industries, helping businesses reduce repetitive tasks. Along with machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI), companies can automate processes, optimize production, and improve product quality. AI helps process large amounts of customer data, predicts purchasing behavior, and enhances production efficiency.
Applications of AI, Automation, and ML:
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Virtual agents.
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Biometrics.
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Voice recognition.
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Cancer cell detection in healthcare.
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Detection of hazardous issues in production.
3.4. Cloud-based ERP and Other Manufacturing Software
ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) is an enterprise resource management system, especially cloud-based ERP systems. These software solutions help manage all aspects of production and business operations while securely storing data in the cloud, allowing employees to access data from anywhere and work remotely.
Applications of Cloud-based ERP and Manufacturing Software:
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Inventory management.
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Customer relationship management (CRM).
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Email services.
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Online banking.
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Data backup and recovery.
3.5. 5G and Smart Factories
Smart factories apply many advanced technologies such as AI, 5G, collaborative robots (cobots), 3D printing, ERP, and cloud computing. Among them, 5G technology is particularly important due to its ability to transmit data quickly and efficiently, combined with AI, to increase production speed and improve work efficiency. These solutions not only reduce costs but also enhance product quality and labor productivity.
Applications of 5G and Smart Factories:
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Automated robots.
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Self-driving vehicles.
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IoT support.
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AI support.
4. Conclusion
The digital transformation trends in manufacturing are opening up many growth opportunities for businesses. Adopting advanced technologies helps reduce costs, increase productivity, improve product quality, and reduce risks in production. These technologies will continue to drive the development of the manufacturing industry in the future. Businesses can learn more about these trends at international exhibitions such as NEPCON Vietnam, METALEX Vietnam, Vietnam Manufacturing Expo, and Waste and Recycling Vietnam, where the most advanced digital transformation technologies in manufacturing are showcased, both domestically and internationally.

