Reliable insight into production and operations
SSAB’s Hämeenlinna plant wanted to ensure operational reliability and gain trustworthy situational awareness of its critical production functions. To achieve this, Elkome implemented a wireless measurement system that seamlessly integrates environmental and condition monitoring into the plant’s existing automation data collection.
Visibility into critical production functions
The factory’s objective was to improve visibility into critical production functions and ensure that essential conditions are in order without continuous manual monitoring. The solution needed to provide a comprehensive view of production status and integrate easily with the existing automation environment. In addition, it had to be cost-effective and flexible enough to scale to new locations.
Private LoRaWAN as part of production data collection
Elkome implemented a private, wireless LoRaWAN-based measurement and data acquisition system at the Hämeenlinna plant. The system collects data on production conditions and equipment health, such as temperature and vibration measurements. LoRaWAN communication proved reliable even across extensive factory areas, where distances between measurement points ranged from hundreds of meters to several kilometers. The collected data was integrated into the existing automation data collection system, where it is used for more accurate monitoring and analysis.
Reliable data collection in production environments
The implementation demonstrated that the solution operates reliably in demanding production conditions and effectively complements the plant’s existing automation data collection. The system provides rapid confirmation that critical production areas are operating normally and ensures that deviations are detected in time. The wireless architecture simplified deployment and enabled the addition of new measurement points without interrupting production.
"The solution gave us confidence that the production situation is under control and that any deviations can be responded to in time," says Project Manager Jari Puurtinen at SSAB's Hämeenlinna plant.
A solid foundation for independent future development
Elkome delivered the required infrastructure and measurement solution and supported the system integration. As part of the project, documentation and guidelines were prepared to enable SSAB to independently develop and expand the solution in the future. The system has been designed for easy scalability and reuse across new measurement sites, providing a clear foundation for long-term use as part of production data collection.
Key Products and Services Provided by Elkome:
“The solution gave us confidence that the production situation is under control and that any deviations can be addressed in a timely manner.”
Jari Puurtinen, SSAB
