Interview with Pekka Nykänen, Pro-Tot Oy
The need for automation in industry continues to grow, and technological solutions are evolving. Pekka Nykänen from Pro-Tot points out that automation is nothing new, but it has developed enormously. “Automation has been introduced into industry at the same pace as new technological possibilities have emerged. New equipment has always made it possible to automate new stages of the production process. Automation is not a new concept, but as technology advances, the possibilities expand.”
HMI, or Human Machine Interface, has come a long way. Whereas there used to be buttons and levers, nowadays visual user interfaces are the norm. This creates work in the field of automation. An HMI that has been carefully designed and developed in close collaboration with the customer makes life easier for the user throughout the machine’s entire lifecycle, ensuring the customer gets the most out of their investment. As equipment and applications evolve, so too does quality. “There has been a great deal of progress. For example, it used to be difficult to get machine vision technology to work consistently. Nowadays, camera technology and software have advanced, and we can get them to work more reliably,” says Pekka.
Automation expertise provides the answer to the challenges and opportunities facing industry
The role of automation in industry continues to grow. In particular, the scope for programming has expanded, meaning that almost anything can be achieved through programming, from motor control right through to safety settings.
Investing in automation is often a long-term investment. Well-designed automation solutions make it easier and more cost-effective to carry out development work and implement changes in the future. An automation project often involves modernising old equipment, modifying control systems, bringing safety up to current standards, and incorporating more advanced technology into the customer’s production processes.
Pro-Tot’s automation department supports its customers’ needs not only in projects but also in maintenance within the customer’s production environment. Automation maintenance includes, amongst other things, fault diagnosis and repair, production optimisation and safety improvements. We combine our expertise in design, programming and mechanics to build and maintain efficient and safe machinery.
The industrial sector may face a number of challenges relating to automation, such as compatibility issues, a lack of expertise and high costs. With an expert partner, the aim is to turn these challenges into opportunities. It is worth taking steps forward, as automation enables improved productivity, cost-effectiveness and quality.
Pro-Tot’s automation expertise in projects and maintenance
Mechanical Engineering
We combine our expertise in design, programming and mechanics to build efficient and safe machines. Our main tool for implementing automation in new machines is the Siemens TIA Portal.
Machine safety measures and modifications to control systems
We carry out modifications to the control systems of existing production lines and safety upgrade projects in accordance with current standards. We are able to work with control systems from various automation suppliers, such as Siemens, Omron, Mitsubishi, etc.
Automation as part of maintenance
An integral part of Pro-Tot’s service model is its expertise in automation within the customer’s production environment. Automation maintenance includes, amongst other things, fault diagnosis and repair, production optimisation, safety improvements, software backups, automation lifecycle management and condition monitoring.
What interests me about automation is continuous learning and tangible successes
Pekka Nykänen explains that his career choice was made during a work placement. “For me, a three-month placement in industry opened up the prospect of a career in electrical automation. I was captivated by industrial machinery, equipment and development.”
The work still inspires me. “No job is perfect, but I still find this work inspiring. I’m particularly fascinated when I see the results of my work. For example, when my own improvements have made a machine work better,” Pekka explains.
Pekka’s work experience spanning several decades is a strength. He does not yearn for the days before digitalisation, but recognises the benefits of his work experience in his current role. Back when there wasn’t so much programming involved, the job encompassed many aspects that aren’t taught in the automation sector these days. He gained a broad range of skills through his work.
There is a lot of talk about continuous learning and self-development. In Pekka Nykänen’s experience, at least in this job, continuous development happens through the work itself. “I don’t need to study anything new, as it’s part of the job. The work involves constant reading, researching, testing and taking on board new things. That’s how you keep learning all the time. You could say that a fully-fledged automation expert is someone who has just retired. Your whole working life is one of learning,” Pekka explains.
