The Problem
A copper processing company wanted to modernize its operations, starting with data collection and analysis. The company 
needed a holistic data solution that worked with their existing machinery and could be easily integrated into day-to-day management.
The Solution
Premier Automation developed a data collection system, including custom software to store and interpret production data. The high-speed system reported on different equipment across multiple mills, offering precise samples, real-time feedback and analysis of long-term patterns. Premier Automation also upgraded PLCs as needed, ensuring smooth and automatic data collection.
The Results
The copper processing company now uses Premier Automation’s system for their Quality Control laboratory and for everyday management by 11 foremen with customized data access per person. This company plans to extend the data system into additional mills. Premier Automation designed the system to be scalable and modular, making it easy to expand as the customer’s needs grow and change.
Pain Points
- Needed cohesive data system for disparate equipment in multiple locations
- Required a database that presented unique information to individual foremen
- Wanted a system that offered both real-time data and long-term analysis
Technology used
- WinCC
- Visual Basic
- SQL Database
- 11 upgraded PLCs
Services provided
- PLC upgrades
- Custom-tailored software with scalable functionality
Challenges
- Customer relied on our engineering insight to develop a custom data system to meet their unique needs.
Results
- Created cohesive data collection system with baked-in analytics
- Synchronized equipment in different mills with 11 PLC upgrades and corresponding real-time data portals