Vertical: Manufacturing
Application: Video analytics, drones, digital twin
Ecosystem: Vodafone Portugal, SAP, Ericsson
Private Network: 5G
In a bold move towards modernizing industrial processes, CIMPOR, a large Portugal-based cement company, has successfully implemented a 5G Standalone Private Mobile Network (MPN 5G SA) at its Alhandra Production Centre. This project, developed in collaboration with industry giants Vodafone, Ericsson, and SAP, marks a significant milestone in CIMPOR’s journey towards operational excellence.
The new 5G Standalone network introduces a suite of advanced technologies designed to optimize operations, reduce costs, mitigate risks, and minimize environmental impact. Key innovations enabled by this state-of-the-art solution include:
- Technicians can now use advanced wearable devices to share real-time visuals with off-site experts, enabling swift problem-solving and reducing downtime.
- Sophisticated cameras equipped with artificial intelligence algorithms monitor production lines, automatically detecting anomalies and enhancing overall plant safety.
- A vast network of wireless sensors continuously collects and analyzes data, providing invaluable insights for predictive maintenance and process optimization.
- Cutting-edge drones equipped with high-resolution cameras and thermal imaging capabilities conduct regular facility inspections, accessing areas that are difficult or dangerous for human workers.
- A highly detailed virtual model of the entire plant allows for simulations, scenario planning, and remote monitoring, revolutionizing decision-making processes.
CIMPOR’s ambitions extend beyond the Alhandra Plant. The company has entered into a 10-year extendable contract with Vodafone Portugal, with plans to expand the 5G network to its Souselas and Loulé Plants. This expansion underscores CIMPOR’s dedication to innovation and sustainability across its operations.
Berkan Fidan, CIMPOR’s Chief Technology Officer, emphasized the necessity of this investment, stating, “The cement industry is data-intensive, and collecting available data has been challenging due to the physical and operational conditions at our plants. This new network allows us to overcome these obstacles.”
The implementation of the 5G network brings immediate and long-term advantages:
- Rapid Quality Reviews: The ability to obtain precise quality reviews of cement without the traditional 28-day wait.
- Enhanced Plant Visibility: Improved emission forecasts and maintenance capabilities.
- Extensive Sensor Network: Approximately 10,000 sensors across 19 global plants, coupled with 50 antennas, drones for stock level measurement, and thermal cameras for real-time monitoring.
- Future Innovations: Plans to incorporate smart glasses with video streaming functionalities inside the plants.
CIMPOR’s adoption of the 5G Standalone Private Mobile Network represents a significant step towards a more efficient, safe, and sustainable industrial future. By leveraging advanced technologies and fostering partnerships with leading tech companies, CIMPOR is not just adapting to the challenges of Industry 4.0 – it’s actively shaping the future of the cement industry.
