Feed procurement glossary
Automation
Definition
Automation in a feed mill covers automatic batching, dosing, process control, traceability and reporting, typically through PLC and SCADA systems. Levels range from manual to fully automatic.
Why it matters
It improves consistency, traceability and labour efficiency, and it exposes mechanical weaknesses.
When it affects procurement
When defining control scope, licensing rights and post-handover modification authority.
Example
Automatic dosing of 12 macro bins with batch traceability per production order.
Frequently asked questions
Does automation raise capacity?
Mainly indirectly, through fewer errors, faster changeovers and less downtime.