Every production process is unique. Optimizing production and identifying the factors that influence the efficiency of a process require a good diagnostic and analysis tool.
CABB Oy in Kokkola uses the Wedge process data analysis tool to solve problems and improve production.
No more time-consuming Excel!
As a manufacturer of agrochemicals and pharmaceutical precursors, CABB is a high-tech company in the fine and specialty chemicals sector.
“The level of automation in our factory is high, and the processes provide us with enormous amounts of data and measurement results. We used to use Excel to document trends. Now we use wedge to process and analyze measurement data to show how the process really works,” says Reijo Partanen, R&D Director at CABB.
Batch processes present unique challenges to product quality.
Production at the Kokkola plant is based on batch processes, and production volumes comprise several dozen tons at a time. Compared to continuous processes, this presents unique challenges for production and ensuring consistent product quality.
“We have five production lines in the plant, always with a separate product on each line. When the process changes, it is important to be able to investigate the key issues immediately,” Partanen points out.
A smooth pilot for a batch process
CABB implemented Wedge for the first time as a data analysis tool for continuous processes. The company then conducted a pilot project for volume production. This took some time, as the factory’s automation system had to communicate seamlessly with Wedge.
“We knew that the process could not be completed simply by pressing a button, but that it would require some thought and experimentation. The collaboration with Trimble’s experts went smoothly. They listened to us and even the customization of the application was changed to our needs so that it is more familiar to us,” says Partanen.
Versatile for use by different professionals
First, a small group on the shop floor used Wedge and ironed out the key issues. Gradually, the software found its way to the chemists and the plant manager as well as the engineers. It’s a tool for daily use that more and more employees are familiar with.
“Wedge has integrated flexibly into our day-to-day operations. The people who are now using Wedge are used to working with a variety of software, so they are already familiar with the subject matter. The system has been particularly useful for optimization and problem analysis,” says Partanen.
Efficiency and security are key success factors
CABB’s customers need high-quality products that are produced efficiently and safely at the same time. This requires breaking new ground and mastering process analytics.
Partanen concludes, “Our Basel plant is also interested in using Wedge. The employees there were enthusiastic about our experiences.”