NEXE Embraces Digitalization to Reduce Carbon Footprint
A Collaboration Driven by Cutting-Edge Technology
In a groundbreaking move towards sustainability, Rockwell Automation, Inc., announced today that NEXE d.d., a prominent player in the building materials sector in Croatia and the region, is embarking on a journey of digitalization.
Poised to enhance NEXE’s production processes and simultaneously drive reductions in their carbon footprint, these changes are transformative.
NEXE’s Commitment to Sustainable Practices
The NEXE Group, renowned for its expertise in cement, concrete, aggregates, concrete elements, roof tiles, and bricks, is taking significant strides towards a greener future. These measures are not limited to digitalization but extend to the adoption of alternative raw materials and fuels.
Technology at the Heart of Sustainability
At the core of NEXE’s transformation lies the FactoryTalk® Analytics™ Pavilion8® Model Predictive Control (MPC) solution, complemented by performance-management dashboards powered by the ThingWorx IIoT platform, part of the FactoryTalk® InnovationSuite, developed by PTC.
The Science Behind the Transformation
Facilitated by the collaboration between Rockwell Automation’s data science teams and Kalypso, a Rockwell Automation company, the deployment of this innovative architecture at NEXE d.d. is now underway. Furthermore, the Pavilion8 MPC solution introduces an intelligence layer that seamlessly overlays existing automation systems.
This integrated approach involves continuously analyzing real-time operational data and systematically comparing it against desired outcomes. Consequently, the system autonomously drives new control targets, resulting in a reduction in process variability and a significant boost in efficiency.
A Data-Driven Approach
The MPC software draws data from various sources, including the ThingWorx solution—a comprehensive end-to-end technology platform designed for the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT). This platform equips NEXE with powerful tools and technologies to develop and deploy applications, including augmented reality (AR) experiences.
Danijel Koren, Plant Manager at NEXE d.d., expressed optimism, saying,
“This is a significant step forward for our entire Group. We aim to integrate all our systems and empower decision-makers with operational data. Early indications suggest substantial cost savings and increased efficiency, with a projected payback period of less than a year.”
Pierre Teszner, Regional Vice President for Central and Eastern Europe at Rockwell Automation, added,
“The beginning of any digital journey is exciting, and we’re thrilled to support NEXE in unlocking its full potential. This model, encompassing extensive data capture, analysis, and real-time intervention, has yielded impressive results globally, and we eagerly anticipate NEXE’s achievements.”
About Rockwell Automation
Rockwell Automation, Inc., a global leader in industrial automation and digital transformation, strives to unite human imagination with technological potential, fostering increased global productivity and sustainability. Based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the company employs 28,000 dedicated problem solvers, serving customers across 100 countries.
In an era where sustainability holds paramount importance, the collaboration between Rockwell Automation and NEXE d.d. stands as a compelling example of how technology and innovation can effectively propel positive change toward a more environmentally conscious future.
Sources: THX News & Rockwell Automation.
