Originally Published on: Quantzig|How Will the Use of Analytics Benefit the Chemical Industry?
Situated at the heart of manufacturing, the chemical industry is undergoing a significant transformation, converting petroleum and natural gas into intermediate materials that shape a diverse range of everyday products. Boasting an annual sales volume nearing US$5 trillion and a global workforce approaching 20 million, the industry is wholeheartedly embracing digital transformation. Pioneering technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence, robotics, additive manufacturing, and advanced analytics are reshaping both commodity and specialty chemicals, tailoring them to specific end applications. Harnessing the wealth of historical data sets related to products and processes, chemical companies are utilizing analytics to unveil intricate patterns, gaining profound insights into their capabilities.
Revolutionizing Preventative Maintenance and Asset Management
The integration of sensors into chemical industry equipment, such as turbines and compressors, generates a continuous stream of data. Analytics harnesses this data to identify patterns, predict potential breakdowns, and prevent machinery failures. A comparative analysis of data from similar equipment ensures performance optimization, aiding chemical companies in avoiding unexpected shutdowns and enhancing productivity.
Elevating Detection of Alarms
Considering the hazardous nature of chemicals, continuous monitoring of production, storage, and transportation is paramount. Analytics facilitates efficient monitoring, reducing explosive gas levels and preventing mishaps or explosions that could pose threats to life and property.
Advancing Energy Management
In the dynamic environment of a chemical plant, selecting optimal operating conditions becomes challenging. Advanced analytics and smart manufacturing leverage technologies like soft sensors to process multiple data points, control non-standard processes, and enhance energy efficiency. This not only ensures energy optimization but also reduces costs for chemical companies.
Optimizing Load Forecasting
Accurate load forecasting is a pivotal cost-saving endeavor for chemical companies. Analytics enables precise forecasting of raw material loads, encompassing oil, natural gas, air, water, metals, and minerals. This capability facilitates meeting the demand and supply requirements for power and energy.
Transforming Safety Management
The advent of Industry 4.0 and advanced analytics technologies has revolutionized safety methods in the chemical industry. Real-time data monitoring, such as sensing mechanical vibrations or cracks in chemical tanks, enhances safety measures, significantly reducing production risks.
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