Digitisation is no longer an option, it is the need of the hour for cement companies. More than the fear of losing out to competition, it is factors such as efficiency, returns and sustainability that are fueling IT initiatives in the industry. ICR takes a closer look at the IT approach that manufacturers need to take to remain ahead of the curve.

The cement industry has witnessed numerous changes since the industrial revolution, and the most important one of them – technology – is here to stay. In modern times, with increasing competition, it is imperative for cement manufacturing companies to keep evolving and matching the speed at which the industry and its technology is growing. It is time for cement makers to go digital in their approach. 

Digital transformation for cement manufacturers

The process of cement manufacturing starts from locating and obtaining its raw materials to making it reach the end consumer. The whole process is labour intensive and can be made more effective and streamlined by the use of technology. Digitisation has a lot to offer to a cement organisation. Here’s how:

Control over quality and process: It is essential to measure the quality of raw material, which is fundamental for a good quality product, monitoring equipment health while chemical processes are on-going and a lot of other factors are involved in the cement making process. With the use of smart systems and technology, operators at each stage can get quick data of the process and make real-time decisions, which shall optimise the production and lead to quality results. 

Equipment monitoring and health predictions: Any equipment or machinery at a cement plant undergoes wear and tear with large loads of material, continuous running and due to environmental conditions. With systems that can predict the health of these equipment and machinery, monitoring their health and downtime becomes more effective. 

Automation and IoT: Functioning as the brain and nervous system of the cement plant is automation. From collecting data to automating processes, the sole motive to implement this technology is to achieve effective load management and efficiency in all verticals of the cement manufacturing process. Internet of Things (IoT) is the buzz word in the world of technology and adapting to that has been known to show results for better management and predictive techniques for the business.

Connected logistics: Transportation of material from one floor to another for the next step in the process is a key component of the cement making process. It involves movement of conveyor belts, special carriers and trucks for taking the end product to its distribution sources. These operational activities can be maintained and optimised by using technological solutions that measure the vitals of the vehicles carrying load. There also are multiple software that help plan the movement of the organisation’s fleet. It contributes towards saving time and cost for the business with effective deliveries and on schedule arrivals. 

Cyber security: Cement plants are as likely to be hacked or subjected to system viruses. Technology and firewalls prevent such incidents from happening.  

–Kanika Mathur

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