RSB Transmissions: AI-Driven Production of Transmissions & Components

We're integrating AI and Machine Learning across all plants to drive digitization and embrace Industry 4.0, maintaining a competitive edge in product and process technology. Our goal is to build smart factories that leverage latest technology to optimize operations and ensure that our products meet the quality standards.
Nishit Behera - Executive Director – Business Development & Strategy, RSB Transmissions

What advanced tools, systems, software, and technologies is the company using to enhance its manufacturing processes?

Over the years, we have evolved from Oxy Cutting to Plasma Laser Cutting, which ensures precise dimensional accuracy and minimized distortion. We also leverage robotic welding technology and the latest software to handle high volumes while maintaining consistent welding quality across each fabricated piece.

Our manufacturing facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art CNC machines, painting facilities with baking provisions, CMM (Coordinate Measuring Machines), Ultrasonic testing, Dye Penetration Tests, Magnetic Particle Testing (MPT), alongside a welding training centre in every plant.

We also have an in-house, advanced welding training centre that sets the benchmark for technological advancement, ensuring we meet future industry demands.

How does the company ensure quality and reliability in production and what testing processes are in place for the finished products?

We adhere to a rigorous Total Quality Management (TQM) system, which incorporates continuous improvement into our processes. Our product range undergoes regular upgrades, leveraging technical expertise and the latest design and development insights, informed by real-time field feedback.

We maintain close communication with OEM technical teams to evaluate the field performance, durability, and usage parameters of our products under live site conditions, enabling us to make precise improvements based on these insights. Our quality systems are built on the philosophy of “Zero Defect, Zero Effect,” ensuring we manufacture products that are both defect-free and environmentally friendly.

What steps is the company taking to reduce the environmental impact of your manufacturing processes and materials?

All our units are globally certified for ISO 14001 (Environmental Management System) and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety). We implement TPM (Total Productive Maintenance) and ISO 9000 QMS, along with built-in TQM practices that focus on continual improvement.

Our sustainability initiatives also include proactive improvements for OEMs through our in-house design and development teams, aimed at accelerating customer satisfaction and building lasting relationships with our esteemed clients.

We are committed to environmental sustainability, including investments in renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, and partnerships with organizations focused on reducing carbon emissions. Our target is to achieve 60% renewable energy consumption of the total RSB Group consumption by 2030. This goal will be realized through the promotion of solar power plant installations and the purchase of renewable energy from open access sources, which currently account for 6% of the total group consumption.

How do you meet the diverse needs of various construction equipment manufacturers while maintaining compatibility and performance?

Our manufacturing units are fitted with cutting-edge tools and technologies, such as CNC laser cutting, Plasma and Oxygen cutting, Robotic welding, CNC floor boring machines, machining centres, and Submerged Arc Welding for I-beam manufacturing. These are continually upgraded to stay ahead of technological advancements.

We have also developed customized design solutions for aggregates and services, including engineered fixtures for welding and assembly, and various Value Analysis/Value Engineering (VAVE) projects with customers to optimize costs while meeting stringent quality standards.

Is the company using technologies like IoT, AI, and automation, in its manufacturing processes and for supply chain management?

As the largest structure manufacturer in India, serving leading OEMs such as Tata Hitachi, Caterpillar, Kobelco, Komatsu, and JCB, we remain committed to adopting the latest technologies, including IoT, ESG, and TPM. Our goal is to solidify our position as the most sought-after manufacturer in India.

We are actively implementing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) across all our plants to achieve comprehensive digitization. By embracing Industry 4.0, we strive to stay at the forefront of product and process technology innovation. Our IoT and automation initiatives will monitor safety conditions, track equipment performance, facilitate early maintenance alerts, and provide real-time data on energy and material consumption.

Through our unique TQM and TPM methodologies, we ensure that customer expectations are seamlessly integrated throughout the supply chain. These processes are meticulously documented digitally, enabling real-time access for updates and actions.

How can partnerships between component manufacturers, equipment producers, and distributors enhance innovation and responsiveness in the construction sector?

Partnerships offer distinct advantages, such as alignment of goals, leveraging expertise, identifying cost-saving opportunities, developing new products, and fostering trust, transparency, and quick responses to unforeseen changes or opportunities.

We supply our products to OEM customers in India and their overseas locations, while also diversifying into new products (components and aggregates) that provide optimized, low-cost solutions.

We view our suppliers as part of our extended value chain. Strengthening our supplier base helps us provide high-quality, competitive solutions to customers, and build a more sustainable future together. Our Central Supply Chain Management (SCM) team focuses on optimizing natural resources through supplier collaboration, with the goal of maintaining a competitive, quality supplier base for our multi-location plants near OEM manufacturing sites.

How is your company supporting the increasing shift to electric and hybrid construction equipment?

As heavy machinery manufacturers increasingly develop all-electric versions of conventional construction vehicles, we are focusing on providing adaptable components, such as electric motors and gearboxes, where we possess a technological advantage.

The construction industry’s growing emphasis on environmentally friendly building methods has led to a significant shift toward electric heavy equipment. This trend mirrors the broader adoption of electric vehicles as an eco-friendly solution. We are strategically positioning ourselves to support this shift by developing components that align with these eco-conscious trends.

What strategies do you have in place for managing supply chain challenges and ensuring timely delivery of components to meet customer needs?

As I mentioned earlier, we are implementing Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning across all plants. Our primary objective is to establish smart factories that leverage latest technology to optimize operations and ensure that our products meet the quality standards and proactively identify and address potential challenges.

This initiative will contribute to reduced lead times, enhanced visibility and transparency, streamlined processes, and accelerated decision-making. By leveraging real-time tracking, we can improve order accuracy, minimize stockouts, and ensure that our products consistently meet stringent quality standards.