Real-time, server-based alarms notify operators when issues both big and small arise. For example, a voltage drop could affect the electrical balance of the EAF, making the furnace inefficient.
With FactoryTalk VantagePoint software, GrafTech has improved the trending and real-time reporting capabilities of its ArchiTech system.
FactoryTalk VantagePoint software aggregates EAF information and produces real-time dashboards and reports with situational and historical context to help inform decision-making and provide access to the right information at the right time.
“Sometimes the problems uncovered by the ArchiTech system end up being the proverbial needle in a haystack,” said Messineo. “The system allows customers a level of visibility into operations that they haven’t experienced before.”
Operational data is collected via a Microsoft SMTP server and compiled in a Microsoft SQL Server® database.
This allows operators to see alert statistics in real time, as well as overall trend reports that are customizable and dynamic.
Increased Visibility, Increased Productivity
The addition of FactoryTalk VantagePoint software into the ArchiTech system has been well-received by GrafTech customers.
The complex EAF data is easily translated and simplified to offer actionable information, helping reduce and control costs. “In addition to troubleshooting, customers can also uncover opportunities to increase productivity, eliminate waste and streamline production.
Our customers have reported estimated financial savings from $100,000 to over $1 million annually with the improved reporting provided through the FactoryTalk solution,” said Messineo.
Remote access to real-time EAF data provides GrafTech engineers the ability to see issues as they happen and to proactively plan for similar furnace issues that could occur in the future.
The GrafTech team can monitor and analyze data pulled from the ArchiTech system and notify the customer of something they might not see on their own. For example, if technicians see a customer’s EAF hydraulic pressure rise out of standard variance, they will contact customer support.
The support team will then notify the customer to look into it, find the root of the specific problem, and fix it. This enables GrafTech to have additional touchpoints for issues the customer may not have even noticed.
With 300 current users, GrafTech has been able to simplify and streamline the installation, configuration and visualization of the ArchiTech manufacturing intelligence solution using cloud-based, FactoryTalk VantagePoint.
The results mentioned above are specific to GrafTech’s use of Rockwell Automation products and services in conjunction with other products. Specific results may vary for other customers. Neither GrafTech nor Rockwell assume any liability based on a reader’s use of the information contained herein. GrafTech’s liability to a user of the ArchiTech Productivity System is expressly limited to the terms of use agreed to between the user and GrafTech.
FactoryTalk and VantagePoint are trademarks of Rockwell Automation Inc.
ArchiTech is a trademark of GrafTech.
