MSR Kaliprasad, Chief Digital and Information Officer, Shree Cement, shares his ideas about digitalisation with Kanika Mathur.

Digitalisation is revolutionising the cement manufacturing process, driving efficiency, sustainability, and innovation across operations. Understanding the impact of digitalisation on plant performance and efficiency involves getting an insider’s perspective. Through this interview, we endeavour to bring various aspects of technology that are affecting the march towards Net Zero.

How has digitalisation transformed operational efficiency and productivity in the cement manufacturing process?
Digitalisation has revolutionised our operational efficiency and productivity by centralising control and enhancing real-time decision making . Each of our plants has a central control room equipped with SCADA and PLC systems that manage the entire manufacturing process. Key parameters captured from numerous sensors are stored in our IIoT historian, providing a comprehensive view of operations from limestone mining to cement dispatch. This integration has minimised manual interventions and enabled near real-time operational insights through BI dashboards accessible at all management levels. As a result, we have seen significant improvements in process optimisation, resource utilisation and overall productivity, ensuring we consistently meet production targets and deliver high-quality cement to our customers.

Can you share examples of advanced technologies currently being adopted in cement manufacturing, such as AI, IoT, or machine learning?
We are actively integrating advanced technologies to enhance our manufacturing processes. Our platform leverages IoT to collect and store data from various sensors across the plant. Additionally, robotic systems are employed for sample collection, preparation and testing using XRF and XRD machines, ensuring precise quality control. Machine learning and AI are being utilised for predictive maintenance, where models predict equipment failures before they occur, reducing downtime and maintenance costs. Automated process control and blending optimisation technologies deployed in our cement and raw mills enhance efficiency and consistency.

What role does automation play in improving the accuracy and speed of processes across cement production?
Automation plays a critical role in improving both accuracy and speed across our production processes. By automating operations through SCADA systems and PLCs, we ensure precise control over key manufacturing parameters, reducing human error and increasing consistency. Robotic systems used for sample handling and automated testing accelerate quality assurance while providing reliable data. Automated process control further streamlines production, enabling faster adjustments and minimising downtime while maintaining high-quality standards.

How has digitization helped in predictive maintenance for critical equipment in cement plants, and what benefits have you observed?
Digitalisation has been pivotal in shifting our maintenance strategy to a predictive approach. By capturing granular data on key parameters and equipment vibrations, we are building AI/ML models that predict potential failures before they occur. This proactive approach reduces maintenance costs and improves equipment uptime and availability. Predictive models address issues in critical machinery
before they lead to costly breakdowns, enhancing operational reliability.

Could you discuss the impact of digital tools on quality control and consistency in cement production?
Digital tools have significantly improved quality control and consistency in cement production. All quality data, including results from bomb calorimeters, compression strength testing machinery and other equipment, are centrally stored in our historian. This centralised repository enables seamless analysis and reporting, ensuring consistent quality standards across all production stages. Automated testing and
robotic sample handling minimise human error, further enhancing the accuracy and reliability of our quality assessments.

How does your company use digital technology to monitor and reduce environmental impact and emissions?
Our commitment to sustainability is deeply embedded in our digital strategy. We integrate power and production data captured through sensors with SAP S4 HANA, enabling real-time tracking of power efficiency and consumption, optimising energy use across operations. Renewable energy projects, such as the solar plant in Beawar (Rajasthan) and wind plants in Kushtagi and Jath, are monitored digitally to ensure optimal performance. Digital tools effectively help monitor, manage and reduce our environmental footprint, aligning with our sustainability goals.

What challenges have you faced in implementing digital solutions in cement manufacturing, and how have these been overcome?
Implementing digital solutions in cement manufacturing necessitates change management. Transitioning to a digitalised environment required a significant shift in organisational culture and employee mindset. To address this, we launched a capability-building programme to train our workforce at all levels on new technologies and ways of working. Additionally, integrating diverse digital systems like IIoT historian and SAP S4 HANA require meticulous planning and a robust IT infrastructure. We are fostering a culture of continuous learning and investing in our technology backbone with future-ready cloud computing tools that support advanced analytics and AI/ML.

How has digitalisation improved the supply chain and logistics in cement distribution?
Digitalisation has significantly enhanced supply chain and logistics operations. GPS tracking across our truck fleet provides real-time visibility to both our supply chain team and customers via our apps. This track-and-trace capability ensures timely deliveries and improves customer satisfaction. Our ongoing supply chain transformation project leverages digital tools to implement a robust Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) process. This initiative helps us optimise logistics costs and increase reach while meeting our EBITDA goals. Advanced
network optimisation tools alongside an intelligent GIS platform and a prescriptive order management solution for trade customers ensure effective service at optimised costs.

What impact has technology had on enhancing workplace safety in high-risk areas of cement production?
Technology has played a crucial role in enhancing workplace safety across high-risk areas in cement production. Our Hazard Identification and Risk Assessment (HIRA) system proactively identifies and mitigates potential risks before an incident occurs. Regular safety inspections, mock drills and ongoing training ensure consistency and effectiveness. Our mobile-first ‘boots on ground’ tool empowers frontline personnel to report safety issues directly from the field. The SAP PM module further enhances safety by tracking walk-by inspections, breakdowns and remedial actions in real time. These technologies foster a ‘zero-injury’ culture by ensuring safety protocols are rigorously followed.

Looking forward, which digital or technological advancements do you see as having the greatest potential to shape the future of the cement industry?
Several digital and technological advancements hold immense potential to shape the cement industry’s future. GenAI will scale AI/ML across the value chain, enabling foundation models to be leveraged at all locations without specific ML models. Use cases like cement strength prediction, fineness optimisation and cyclone jamming prediction will further enhance efficiency and quality. Advanced pricing analytics will enable targeted customer strategies to ensure profitability. These advancements, coupled with a customer-centric approach and a future-ready workforce, will keep us at the forefront of innovation in the cement industry.

The cement industry’s evolution hinges on innovations in bagging, packaging, and palletising—critical processes that ensure product quality, operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Kanika Mathur delves into the latest trends, challenges and advancements shaping these processes in India’s dynamic cement sector.

The cement industry stands at the crossroads of rapid transformation, driven by demands for higher operational efficiency, reduced costs, and sustainable practices. Among the various processes’ integral to the production and distribution of cement, bagging, packaging, and palletising are crucial for ensuring product quality, customer satisfaction, and logistical effectiveness. These processes not only determine how efficiently the product is delivered to the market but also influence the overall profitability and reputation of cement manufacturers.
In India, where the cement industry is one of the largest in the world, these operations have seen significant advancements over the years. However, challenges such as manual labour dependency, outdated technology, and environmental concerns continue to hinder optimal performance. This article explores the current trends, innovations, and challenges in bagging, packaging, and palletising within the cement industry, highlighting real-world examples and strategies for future growth.

Trends in cement packaging
Packaging has evolved significantly in the cement industry, transitioning from simple manual techniques to highly sophisticated automated systems. Today, the focus is on providing eco-friendly and durable solutions that meet the demands of customers while adhering to environmental standards. Traditional woven polypropylene (WPP) bags have been the industry standard for years, offering a balance between cost and functionality. However, the global shift towards sustainability has driven the adoption of biodegradable and recyclable alternatives.
Riddhish Pandey, Associate General Manager (Packing Plant), Wonder Cement, says, “The adoption of multi-layered packaging materials, such as woven polypropylene (WPP) bags, has significantly improved the durability and strength of cement packaging. WPP bags offer enhanced resistance to moisture, tearing, and wear and tear, which is crucial during handling, transportation, and storage. These bags are particularly effective in protecting the cement from environmental factors that could compromise its quality. In addition to WPP bags, some companies are exploring the use of biodegradable or recycled materials as a sustainable alternative. These materials provide a balance between durability and environmental responsibility, helping to reduce the overall environmental impact of cement packaging without sacrificing product integrity.”
“Moreover, adding protective coatings and lamination to packaging has further strengthened the cement bags’ ability to withstand external pressures. These additional layers help maintain the integrity of the cement by providing an extra shield against moisture, dust, and other contaminants, ensuring the product remains in optimal condition during both storage and transit. This combination of advanced materials and protective measures enhances the overall quality of cement distribution, benefiting both the environment and customers” he adds.
In India, UltraTech Cement has been at the forefront of this change. The company introduced recyclable packaging for select products, showcasing its commitment to reducing its environmental footprint. This initiative has set a benchmark for other manufacturers, encouraging them to explore sustainable packaging options. Automated packaging lines, which ensure precision and consistency, are also becoming increasingly popular, allowing companies to reduce wastage and enhance efficiency.

Automation in bagging and packaging
Automation has revolutionised bagging and packaging processes in the cement industry, offering unparalleled benefits in terms of speed, accuracy, and reliability. Automated bagging machines are capable of handling large volumes with minimal human intervention, ensuring consistent bag weight, precise sealing, and reduced spillage.
Companies such as Wonder Cement have adopted state-of-the-art automated bagging systems that integrate features like real-time monitoring and self-calibration. These systems not only minimise downtime but also enable operators to monitor performance remotely, ensuring that the packaging process aligns seamlessly with production schedules. The result is an optimised workflow that enhances overall plant efficiency and meets customer demands promptly.
Gaurav Gautam, Business Unit Head, Beumer Group, says, “The bagging, packaging, and palletising area is crucial in cement plants as this is where revenue generation happens for our customers. Unfortunately, this area often lacks the same efficiency focus as other sections and continues to employ significant manpower. It is also less human-friendly, as workers still handle 50 kg bags under challenging conditions. We are committed to automating these processes and working alongside our customers to identify and resolve challenges. However, introducing automation requires a supportive ecosystem. Innovative equipment alone isn’t enough if the ecosystem isn’t prepared.”
“We approach this as a partnership with our customers, where we understand their problems—whether it’s space issues or challenges with manual loading. While full automation will take time, we have made significant progress. Several of our customers, such as UltraTech, Holcim and Wonder Cement, have already adopted automation, particularly on the loading side of bagging lines,” he adds.
Additionally, automation reduces the reliance on manual labour, addressing challenges such as worker fatigue, errors, and safety concerns. This shift is particularly significant in India, where labour intensive practices have long dominated the industry. By investing in automated solutions, manufacturers can improve productivity while creating safer working environments for their employees.

Importance of bag quality
The quality of bags used in packaging plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of bagging lines and the durability of the product during transportation and storage. Substandard bags can lead to issues such as spillage, breakage, and moisture infiltration, resulting in financial losses and reduced customer satisfaction.
In the Indian cement industry, woven SDP bags are still widely used. While cost-effective, these bags often lack the durability and sealing capabilities required for optimal performance. High-density polyethylene (HDPE) bags, which offer superior strength and moisture resistance, are emerging as a preferred alternative.
To exemplify, Shree Cement has been experimenting with advanced bag designs that enhance sealing and durability. These improvements not only reduce product loss during transportation but also ensure that the cement reaches customers in pristine condition. By prioritising bag quality, manufacturers can enhance their brand image and build long-term customer loyalty.

Palletising: The shift towards hydbrid models
Palletising represents a significant step forward in the packaging and distribution process. Unlike traditional live operations, where bags are filled and dispatched simultaneously, palletising involves buffering bags onto pallets before loading them onto transport vehicles. This method decouples filling and loading operations, allowing for greater flexibility, reduced bottlenecks, and improved efficiency.
While many Indian cement plants are still in the early stages of adopting palletising, pioneers like Ambuja Cement are leading the way. The company has introduced hybrid models that combine manual and automated processes, ensuring a smoother transition from traditional methods to fully automated systems. These palletising solutions not only improve loading efficiency but also enhance safety by minimising manual handling of heavy bags.
In global markets, palletising has become the norm, with European and American manufacturers leveraging advanced robotics and software to optimise operations. As the Indian cement industry continues to modernise, the adoption of palletising is expected to gain momentum, bringing significant benefits in terms of speed, accuracy, and safety.

Dust-free and moisture-controlled packaging environments
Creating a dust-free and moisture-controlled environment is essential for preserving cement quality and ensuring the health and safety of workers. Dust generated during the packaging process can lead to product loss, environmental pollution, and respiratory issues for employees. Similarly, exposure to moisture can cause cement to harden prematurely, rendering it unusable.
To address these challenges, modern cement plants are investing in advanced dust collection systems, moisture barriers, and air-tight packaging technologies. Automated loading machines, for example, are designed to operate close to truck beds, minimising fugitive dust and ensuring precise bag placement.

Digital transformation in bagging and packaging
The integration of digital tools into bagging and packaging processes is revolutionising the cement industry. From predictive maintenance to real-time monitoring, digital technologies enable manufacturers to optimise operations, reduce downtime, and enhance overall equipment effectiveness.
IoT-based solutions are particularly transformative, allowing plant managers to collect and analyse data on machine performance, production rates, and maintenance needs. For instance, Dalmia Cement has introduced digital tools that provide actionable insights into its bagging and packaging operations. These systems help identify potential issues before they escalate, ensuring that equipment remains operational and production schedules
are maintained.

Sustainability quotient
Sustainability has become a critical focus area for the cement industry, with packaging practices playing a key role in achieving environmental goals. By transitioning to biodegradable materials, reducing plastic use, and adopting energy-efficient machinery, manufacturers can minimise their environmental impact while meeting regulatory requirements.
Dalmia Cement’s exploration of biodegradable packaging is a notable example of this commitment. By aligning packaging practices with sustainability objectives, the company not only reduces its carbon footprint but also strengthens its reputation as an environmentally responsible organisation.

Challenges and opportunities in India
Despite significant advancements, the Indian cement industry continues to face challenges in bagging, packaging, and palletising. Infrastructure limitations, workforce training gaps, and the high cost of adopting advanced technologies are major barriers. Additionally, the reliance on traditional bags and manual operations in many plants limits efficiency and increases operational risks.
However, these challenges also present opportunities for innovation and growth. By investing in automation, embracing digital tools, and prioritising sustainability, Indian cement manufacturers can enhance their competitive edge and contribute to the industry’s overall development.

Conclusion
Bagging, packaging, and palletising are not just operational processes—they are strategic enablers that shape the future of the cement industry. By adopting advanced technologies, improving bag quality, and transitioning to hybrid and automated models, Indian cement manufacturers can overcome existing challenges and unlock new opportunities. As the industry embraces innovation, sustainability, and ecosystem readiness, it is well-positioned to achieve long-term success in an increasingly competitive global market.

Utssav Gupta, Director, Supertech Fabrics, discusses how technology and innovation is redefining efficiency and sustainability in the cement industry through advanced material solutions.

Innovative approaches to sustainable material development, pollution control systems, and durability-focused solutions are some of the key aspects that Supertech Fabrics focusses on for the cement industry. In this interaction, we aim to understand the role of advanced textiles, renewable energy, and lifecycle optimisation in addressing
global challenges.

Tell us about Supertech Fabrics.
Supertech Fabrics is a specialty fabrics company where we combine textile engineering, polymer engineering, and an understanding of mechanical applications to develop advanced materials. We see ourselves as material developers working towards innovative solutions. When you approach a problem from a solution-centric perspective, it is crucial to align the bottom-up approach with the top-down approach, ensuring both ends meet effectively.
Our endeavour is to continuously innovate in materials to address modern-world challenges. Textile, as a material, is extremely linear and functional, with a distinct Young’s modulus. Compared to conventional materials, textiles offer numerous advantages, especially in a world facing challenges like geoeconomics, sustainability, and energy consumption. We position ourselves at the heart of these critical global challenges, humbly contributing to their resolution through our innovations.

Tell us about the application of your solution in the cement industry.
The cement industry has undergone significant evolution over the past two decades. The financial dynamics of the industry today are vastly different from what they were in the past. This evolution highlights the increasing importance of new materials. Our solutions are already being applied in areas like conveying systems, pollution control systems, and insulation systems. However, we believe there is still significant potential for development, which can be achieved through active industry interaction. This is where interdisciplinary approaches come into play.
The cement industry itself is continually evolving, and intermediate materials that do not stem from traditional engineering backgrounds have a pivotal role to play. This is where we see ourselves making a significant impact.

How does your product or solution help the cement industry become more efficient and precise in its operations and achieve better production?
In our known areas, such as air pollution systems, our approach to sustainability is twofold. First, we aim to develop materials that are non-fossil fuel-based and not reliant on the petroleum economy. For instance, I am particularly passionate about glass fiber, which is derived from silica.
Second, we focus on extending the lifecycle of materials. For example, if a material needs replacement every two years, extending its lifecycle to three years, and eventually four years, significantly reduces its carbon footprint over time. This approach is a core aspect of sustainability.
Functionally, another critical benefit is minimising material loss. Filtration systems, while environmentally focused, also have an economic impact by preventing the loss of valuable materials during production. By enhancing material strength and collaborating with OEMs, we can extend filtration life and reduce emissions. This not only benefits the environment but also prevents revenue loss for manufacturers.
Our approach is multilateral. Innovation, when viewed holistically, impacts finances, environmental sustainability, and operational efficiency. This interconnected perspective is what we strive to promote.

Tell us about the major innovations in your organisation and how technology, including AI, has helped improve your solutions.
Innovation in our field can be categorised in several ways, but I’ll focus on product innovation. The core of material innovation lies in how we create these materials, which involves understanding the energy costs associated with production.
Globally, energy balance structures are being implemented as part of bottom-up strategies. We need to determine where energy costs can be optimised, such as through renewable energy sources. For example, in emission control systems, power costs are a significant concern.
Our innovation efforts target two primary areas: reducing the power costs associated with emission control and achieving lower emissions levels. My pitch to stakeholders is to consider a one-time investment in renewable energy to address these challenges. With this approach, emissions are reduced, recovery is improved, and everyone benefits.
To achieve these goals, our materials must possess greater mechanical strength. Innovations in material science, coupled with system and operational advancements, allow us to meet these challenges. This holistic, multilateral approach to innovation drives progress in sustainability and efficiency.

What challenges do you face in your product solutions, particularly in the cement industry?
One of the primary challenges is the limited exposure to advanced technologies. India, as the world’s second-largest cement producer, stands at a unique opportunity. Unlike developed nations, where infrastructure constraints can limit advancements, India’s newer plants have immense potential to adopt and benefit from innovative solutions.
However, this also presents a contextual challenge. Science and its applications must address specific, localised needs. Transforming challenges into opportunities requires a collective effort involving stakeholders, systems, and technology providers.
Fossil fuel reliance, the use of alternative fuels, and other futuristic developments are areas that demand preparation and innovation. These challenges, when addressed collaboratively, push boundaries and drive meaningful progress.

Tell us about the sustainability efforts in your organisation.
We have already discussed how our products are developed with sustainability in mind, but let me highlight another important factor: PFAS requirements. Due to high temperatures and severe corrosion in certain applications, the use of fluorine-based chemicals is often unavoidable. However, we are working to minimise the use of such chemicals by developing materials that are more durable. By reducing the lifecycle frequency of replacement, the overall usage of fluorine chemicals decreases over time.
At our production facility, we are committed to achieving zero waste. For instance, our waste bins, which used to be emptied weekly, now remain unemptied for a month due to increased efficiency. Our water discharge is minimal, and we actively transition to renewable energy sources and alternative heating media like gas.
Our machinery is equipped with variable motor drives, ensuring energy consumption aligns precisely with operational requirements. While these initiatives may require significant capital investment upfront, they reflect a mindset-driven commitment to sustainability rather than purely financial motivations. Reducing waste and optimising resource use are achievements that bring satisfaction beyond financial gains.

What’s your view on the net zero mission, and how do you see its journey unfolding?
Achieving net zero emissions is non-negotiable. It must be done. While it may appear as a cost on balance sheets, I see it as an investment.
Net zero efforts demand risk mitigation strategies. There will always be risks, but with creativity and commitment, we can navigate these challenges. The goal is not just a financial or operational milestone; it’s a pledge to ensure a sustainable future. Once we make that commitment, everything else falls into place.