(PetroTimes) – Currently, the leadership at Phu My Fertilizer Plant can monitor the plant’s operations and handle tasks in the field efficiently without being present on-site. This is all thanks to the application of digital technology.
Digital Transformation Workshop at the Plant
Sitting with me in the hall of Phu My Fertilizer Plant, Nguyen Van Nhung, the Deputy Director of Production, in charge of Science, Technology, and Digital Transformation (DT) of the plant, proudly showcased an app on his phone. He shared that now, no matter where he is, he can oversee and monitor the entire operation of the plant.
Nhung explained that every operational data point and historical record is displayed on the app, enabling leadership to detect issues and make prompt decisions. In the past, they had to receive information via phone or go directly to the Central Control Room to address issues. Now, with just a smartphone or computer with internet access, monitoring can be done remotely.
This app, called PMIS (Plant Management Information System), was designed and developed by the plant’s team. It gathers data from the DCS (Distributed Control System) and displays it on users’ handheld devices. This allows for real-time monitoring and quick access to operational history and production information.
Developing a Smart Factory
What’s remarkable is that the software, including PMIS, has been developed entirely by the plant’s internal team. With a firm commitment to digital transformation, the plant’s staff has created applications tailored to their daily operational needs, gradually building towards a fully automated “smart factory.”
Digital transformation at Phu My Fertilizer Plant began right from the construction and initial operations of the plant. The control and automation processes, key aspects of digital transformation, have been implemented from the start. However, the need for accelerated digital transformation became more pressing in 2020, amid the Covid-19 pandemic and the rapid development of digital technologies globally.
Phu My Fertilizer Plant’s digital journey continues to evolve in line with the digital transformation roadmap of the parent company, PVFCCo. Various applications are being continuously upgraded and integrated into daily operations, contributing significantly to the plant’s performance in this new era.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency
Digital applications help predict and prevent equipment failures by facilitating timely maintenance, thus reducing downtime. Additionally, the software solutions integrate seamlessly with existing systems, optimizing current assets and enhancing customer satisfaction, particularly in product delivery.
Through continuous training in digital skills and applications, the plant has fostered a well-equipped workforce to adapt to new technologies, paving the way for further innovation and efficiency.
Looking forward, PVFCCo and the Phu My Fertilizer Plant aim to expand the development of digital tools, further automating processes and optimizing energy usage, all while continuing to train staff to master these new technologies. The leadership is confident that digital transformation will bring groundbreaking changes in operations, contributing significantly to making PVFCCo an internationally recognized, sustainable agricultural and chemical enterprise.
This journey towards becoming a “smart factory” not only reflects technological progress but also the collective effort and growth of the entire Phu My Fertilizer team.