Holcim will expand its usage of AI technology. Image: Holcim
Holcim will use artificial intelligence to include more than 100 plants worldwide over the next four years under a new plan announced recently.
The announcement is an expansion of the company’s current use of artificial intelligence, which has already been deployed in 45 plants. The technology is used to predict and prevent failures as part of the company’s approach to preventive maintenance. The inclusion of AI technology is part of Holcim’s Plants of Tomorrow program, which involves over 140 integrated plants and grinding stations across more than 40 countries.
The new plan will see Holcim roll out its AI preventative maintenance solution and pilot a generative AI program. The solution was developed in collaboration with C3 AI, which is a well-known AI software provider.
“AI is a transformative technology that will revolutionise our industry,” Holcim chief executive officer Miljan Gutovic said.
The company will continue to upskill its maintenance teams to use the AI technology to carry out asset management and optimisation in real time.
Overall, Holcim has AI initiatives in several other areas including product quality and process optimisation to autonomous vehicles and computer vision. These initiatives also include the use of unmanned drones for enhanced inspection and safety practices, and smart control systems for efficient energy consumption.
“Already widely embedded across Holcim, AI catalyses operational efficiency and enhances customer service. We will ultimately scale up our use of AI to hundreds of sites worldwide,” Gutovic said.