MMK Launches Private Corporate LTE Network
Magnitogorsk Iron and Steel Works (MMK) has rolled out a private corporate LTE (pLTE) network that uses the Proteus packet core. Installed as part of the plant’s overall IT infrastructure, the pLTE network adds a new wireless segment to complement the corporate network. The state-of-the-art technologies employed will help to optimise the plant’s operations and make production more efficient.
Coverage of MMK’s main industrial site is provided by MMK-Informservice in partnership with MegaFon. LTE base stations operating in the range of 900 to 2600 MHz have been put in place, which guarantees a stable, high-speed and secure environment for transmitting information not only for standard applications but also for video analytics, machine vision systems and VR/AR.
The corporate network, which is designed for usage by up to 10 thousand devices, can be accessed without a VPN when an MMK SIM card is used. Seamless roaming is available within the coverage area.
The NB-IoT protocol piggybacks atop the network, ensuring that information can be received from industrial facilities quickly. NB-IoT sensors can operate at temperatures from +60˚C to -60˚C, monitoring hundreds of indicators that range from temperature, humidity, pressure, vibration and noise levels to data on the location of personnel and equipment both indoors and outdoors.
The roll-out of the pLTE corporate network will help MMK digitalise its production processes and reduce expenditures on innovative solutions. The Company has already used the network to launch an automated system that employs IT devices to inspect and approve metal products at the rolling shop No. 4 warehouse: specialists have developed a mobile application that reads and matches bar codes on the labels of metal products. As part of the project, the pLTE network replaced Wi-Fi communication, providing a significant cost reduction.
The private network has enabled the Company to quickly test the possibility of implementing a digital project to develop a tracking system for hot-metal ladles. The system will monitor the volume of cast iron at blast furnace outlets, keep records of the amount of cast iron shipped to consumers and monitor the condition of ladle transfer cars.
The pLTE network will also be used for data transmission in a digital warehouse project at MMK’s sinter mix preparation shop, as well as in the warehouse management system.
“We have had a successful partnership with MegaFon for many years, and we have implemented major projects together. The private LTE network that we have rolled out in collaboration with MegaFon creates new potential for us to incorporate digital technologies to optimise business processes and improve workplace safety. The construction of a dedicated network enabled us to create an additional wireless segment for the corporate communication environment, thereby expanding its functionality,” said Vadim Feoktistov, MMK’s Chief IT Specialist.
“MMK is our long-term partner, and together we have implemented digital projects and incorporated advanced technologies. The private LTE network will serve as a reliable base that will enable the Company to improve various production processes. This infrastructure project is one of the first in Russia where we used equipment made by a domestic vendor. This solution is more flexible, which will make it possible, if necessary, to make quick changes and additions to the system based on the customer’s wishes,” said Natalia Taldykina, MegaFon’s Director for Corporate Business Development.