Implementation of Industry 4.0 in Ship Repair Industry: Challenges and Opportunities

Abstract

In recent years, the concept of Industry 4.0 has found its way into the industry, particularly heavy machinery manufacturing. This article explores Industry 4.0 in the context of ship repair, which is part of the heavy industry in the Republic of Bulgaria. The characteristic of the ship repair industry is presented by comparing it with that of shipbuilding. The two industries are similar, but despite that, they have differences. The challenges and opportunities in its implementation in the ship repair process are presented and analyzed. Particular attention is paid to ship repair enterprises of the small and medium-sized (SME) type, which are quite numerous in the Republic of Bulgaria. For them, the adaptation and transition to Industry 4.0 are more challenging. There are identified benefits and opportunities for improving energy efficiency in enterprises, especially small and medium-sized ones, enhancing the working environment, reducing waste generation in the production process, and maintaining competitiveness at a relatively high level.