The Internet of Things: changing how factories run

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) uses internet-connected sensors and machines to monitor and improve industrial and manufacturing processes.

In manufacturing, IIoT links production equipment so operations can be tracked in real time. It is commonly used to monitor machine condition, view production status, measure energy use, and trigger maintenance alerts. This helps manufacturers reduce unexpected downtime, improve efficiency and output, and manage energy better.

Selected examples can show IIoT in action, but they capture only part of the landscape: developments are happening across Europe, including among Orgalim’s corporate members and its national and sectoral member associations. 

Examples deployed by Orgalim membership

Siemens: connecting factories to operational insights 

Siemens’ Insights Hub (formerly MindSphere) is an industrial IoT platform for smart manufacturing, used across industries to turn factory data into actionable operational insights. Siemens case studies include an MG Motor India automotive paint shop that raised throughput by 15% after tackling production losses; the Low Voltage Motor factory in Mexico that improved machining time by 8% within six months; and machining supplier Bror Tonsjö AB, which connected 70 legacy and modern machines to support its Industry 4.0 transition and improve efficiency. 

ABB: monitoring motors to prevent breakdowns 

ABB Ability™ is ABB’s industrial IoT platform. Its Smart Sensors connect motors in factories so companies can monitor asset health and prevent breakdowns, mainly in advanced manufacturing and process industries. In ABB case stories, this delivered around 10% higher uptime at Aurubis Olen, helped Tenaris Dalmine plan maintenance around scheduled stops in 24/7 production, and supported Transcontinental Advanced Coatings’ “zero downtime” goal.

Schneider Electric: linking shopfloor assets to energy and maintenance savings 

Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure is an IoT platform used in many industries. In manufacturing, it connects factory equipment to digital tools to improve production. Schneider reports that its Smart Factories and Distribution Centers have reduced energy costs by 10–30% and maintenance costs by 30–50%.