ANDRITZ annual report 2012 - ANDRITZ Vertical volute pumps

ANDRITZ AUTOMATION
59
Electronic automation has changed the profile of workers
needed to operate machines such as the drying line
in Três Lagoas, with a clear shift from blue-collar
to fewer, but more highly qualified white-collar
positions. Quality control, fault finding, speed regulation
– all work that would previously have been carried
out by hand by a team of workers, is now overseen by
a much smaller group via computer. “In emerging
countries like Brazil, these positions are very
highly valued – it is seen as an exciting opportunity
to learn new skills,” Schiefer explains. By
reducing the need for hands-on work on what can often
be potentially dangerous machinery, automation has
also greatly reduced the number of accidents at production
sites.
These same benefits from automation also help protect
the environment. Fewer production stoppages reduce
the need to carry out repeated machinery start-ups and
shut-downs, which result in higher emissions. ANDRITZ
also incorporates emission tracking technology, enabling
operators to see precisely how much energy they
are using and what it costs – “a powerful tool in educating
staff and raising awareness,” Schiefer comments.
With restrictions on harmful emissions on the rise, this
can also help companies adhere to environmental laws
and guidelines, avoiding costly fines.
Will man ever be totally replaced by machine? This is
a question often asked, says Schiefer, but he thinks
not, at least not in the foreseeable future. “The human
element is vital for safety reasons. One of the major
trends is looking toward utilizing web-based technology,
which brings increased flexibility, allowing us to
access data and control systems remotely via tablets. It
will become less important for humans to be where the
plant is, but they will remain involved in other ways.”
An example of the rapid
development of automation
technology: twin wire presses
from 1950 (left) and 2012 (below).