IIoT trial to set new digital standard for machine efficiency

The pilot project, to be conducted at a copper mine in Latin America, sets out to create a digital standard for improved machine efficiency, reliability and competitiveness.

As part of the trial, SKF’s expertise in bearings, lubrication and condition monitoring will be combined with Honeywell’s capabilities in data consolidation and software development.

According to the two partners, the IIoT project’s ambition is the joint development of a user-friendly digital ecosystem that captures and analyses large amounts of data from a plant operator’s machinery.

Based on the analysis of this data, operators will be able to determine methods to reduce – or potentially even eliminate – manufacturing inefficiencies and unplanned down-time.

President and CEO of SKF, Alrik Danielson explained: “The number of potential data collection points in a modern factory is increasing exponentially, but this data will only generate value for operators if it is analysed and acted upon to improve a machine’s performance and profitability. Our collaboration with Honeywell will make this possible.”

Shree Dandekar, vice president and general manager at Honeywell Connected Plant, commented: “Leveraging the IIoT gives manufacturers real-time access to operating information from an incrementally larger data-set across not only one site or plant, but across an entire enterprise.

“By creating an ecosystem of software and hardware manufacturers with unmatched domain experience, we will be able to better understand the risks and demands on the operating units and ultimately provide a higher-level outcome for our customers.”