In the fast-evolving landscape of industrial work, the intersection of technology and machinery is reshaping traditional paradigms.

The Boardman LJT event ”The Future of Industrial Work,” brought participants together to delve into the profound impacts of digitization on heavy machinery and manufacturing.

 

 

Moderated by Ulla-Maija Uusitalo, PhD, Director of Sales and Account Management at Aalto University, Executive Education and Professional Development, the event focused on the evolving landscape of industrial work from an academic and practical viewpoint.

 

The changing face of industrial work: Insights from academic perspective

Professor Aki Mikkola from LUT University guided the audience through the thrilling journey of digital transformation in heavy machinery and manufacturing.

Mikkola emphasized the transformative power of digitization, highlighting the radical changes in both life and work.

Understanding current trends and their implications for work processes and product development became a central point.

One noteworthy aspect was the shift from conventional material flow processing to a data-centric approach, illustrated through the analogy of mobile phones. Mikkola underscored the scalability of digital ventures compared to traditional hardware endeavors.

 

 

He lifted the impact of digital tools and real-time simulation on product development. These technologies act as a bridge, facilitating real-time feedback and iteration between technical teams and customers. Mikkola explored enhanced automation through artificial intelligence (AI), demonstrating its potential in complex systems.

The audience was left with a sense of excitement about the future of industrial work, as Mikkola emphasized the power of data, provided practical examples of its application, and showcased the transformative potential of digital technologies.

 

Navigating Digital Transformation in Minerals Processing: Insights from Metso

At the same event, Rashmi Kasat-Majakorpi, VP of Equipment Performance (Digital Solutions) from Metso, presented a captivating exploration of digital transformation in the minerals processing industry. Kasat highlighted the industry’s critical role in fostering a sustainable future, given the escalating demand for materials for transition to green energy

Addressing the challenge of the imminent shortage of skilled workers in the industry, Kasat emphasized the need to attract the next generation to the industry.

She showcased how digitalization transforms equipment performance management, enabling remote monitoring and real-time prediction of failures through advanced sensors and machine learning.

Kasat illustrated how Metso optimizes the minerals processing operations using digitalization, providing real-time data and process control strategies to navigate challenges related to varying ore properties, operating conditions, process bottlenecks etc. The integration of simulations allows for exploring ”what-if” scenarios for informed decision-making.

 

 

 

The third dimension of her presentation focused on effective data organization, incorporating machine learning algorithms and business intelligence. This ensures e.g. timely and up-to-date information for field service engineers, streamlining responses to equipment alarms and routine maintenance.

Kasat’s presentation not only highlighted Metso’s approach in embracing digitalization but also outlined a vision for the future of work in the minerals processing industry.

In the closing discussion, Kasat highlighted the importance of creating a culture of trust in the organization, where people feel safe and motivated to embrace these technological developments affecting everyone’s work.

Also, it is important to bring familiarity to tools and technologies on all levels of the organization, by encouraging trying out e.g. AI in own work. And this includes the board and top management as well!