CIMPOR, a leading cement manufacturer, has taken a significant step towards digital transformation with the deployment of a 5G Standalone Mobile Private Network (5G SA MPN) at its Alhandra Production Centre in Portugal. This cutting-edge initiative enhances operational efficiency, improves safety, and supports sustainability efforts, reinforcing CIMPOR’s commitment to innovation in the heavy industry sector.
A Leap Towards Industry 4.0
The newly implemented private 5G network empowers CIMPOR with next-generation connectivity, offering ultra-low latency, high reliability, and increased security. By integrating advanced communication and automation technologies, the company is set to revolutionise its industrial processes.
Some of the key applications enabled by this deployment include:
- Remote Maintenance and Assistance – Augmented reality (AR) glasses allow engineers to perform predictive maintenance remotely, reducing downtime and enhancing equipment longevity.
- Intelligent Video Surveillance – Real-time monitoring via high-definition cameras increases operational security and efficiency.
- Wireless Sensorisation – Thousands of IoT sensors provide real-time data on equipment health, enabling early detection of potential faults and minimising costly disruptions.
- Remote Facility Inspections – Drones equipped with high-precision cameras facilitate quick and accurate inspections, reducing costs and improving worker safety.
- Digital Twin Technology – A virtual representation of the plant allows for enhanced monitoring and optimisation of infrastructure.
Beyond Alhandra: Expanding the Digital Transformation
CIMPOR’s ambitions extend beyond its Alhandra facility. The company plans to implement similar 5G SA MPNs at its Souselas and Loulé plants, marking the beginning of a broader industrial modernisation strategy. This continued investment underscores CIMPOR’s vision of leveraging digitalisation to enhance efficiency, safety, and environmental sustainability across its operations.
Sustainability and Efficiency Gains
The deployment of a private 5G network aligns with CIMPOR’s sustainability objectives by supporting more efficient resource use and reducing its environmental footprint. The integration of Industry 4.0 solutions—such as predictive maintenance, smart monitoring, and automation—translates into lower emissions, reduced energy consumption, and optimised production cycles. Even a marginal efficiency gain can significantly cut carbon emissions, contributing to the company’s long-term decarbonisation goals.
A Collaborative Effort for Technological Advancement
The implementation of this pioneering 5G SA MPN has been carried out in partnership with Vodafone Portugal, Ericsson, and SAP. While these collaborations have been instrumental in the network’s deployment, the focus remains on CIMPOR and its industrial transformation. By integrating state-of-the-art connectivity solutions, CIMPOR positions itself at the forefront of technological innovation in cement manufacturing.
Paving the Way for the Future of Industrial Connectivity
CIMPOR’s adoption of private 5G technology sets a benchmark for digital transformation in the cement industry. By embracing high-speed, low-latency connectivity and leveraging advanced industrial applications, the company is not only enhancing operational efficiency but also ensuring a safer and more sustainable future for its workforce and the environment.
As CIMPOR continues its journey towards a fully digitalised and connected industrial landscape, its commitment to innovation and sustainability remains unwavering, demonstrating the immense potential of private 5G networks in reshaping the future of manufacturing.
At the EVOLVE - Digital Transformation Summit last week, organised by APDC - Digital Business Community, a non-profit public utility association, CIMPOR, Vodafone and Ericsson explained how Private 5G Networks are being applied to heavy industry. The details are available here (in Portuguese) and a video of the discussion is here (in Portuguese as well).
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