Industrialised #digitalSaras pilot projects
The Saras Group believes that technological innovation is one of the main strategic levers for maintaining its leading role in the national and international energy scene and is a key driver that will help us increase process efficiency, reduce consumption and losses, improve the quality of refined products and optimise processes.
One milestone in this field is the launch of implementation of the first ‘Digital Units’. These are pilot units for the integration of new technologies and processes that will improve the performance and reliability of Sarlux plants. 3D models of entire plants have been created using software applications, to optimise the scheduling and execution of maintenance shutdowns, or to identify and promptly manage any anomalies in plant operation.
Another fundamental tool is change management, which we have applied to innovate work procedures for most of our staff. For example, mobile devices for filling in checklists on the field have been distributed to about 450 technical workers, enabling them to collect tens of thousands of data items daily throughout the refinery.
A mobile phone app for environmental protection has also been developed: the operators, during their routine activities, can use it to map precisely odour sources, spot any anomalies and, in the medium term, support the planning of structural mitigation interventions if necessary.
Our R&D work continues and expands the scope of the Industry 4.0 technologies applied in Sarlux.
#DIGITALSARAS TECHNOLOGIES
Big data and analytics
Collection and analysis of large amounts of data from different business systems to support decision-making and real time optimisation
Augmented reality
Enrichment of sensory perception with supporting digital information
Industrial internet
Equipment and personnel are always connected and able to exchange data and information in real time
Cloud
For collecting and distributing large amounts of data in real time using shared platforms
Cyber security
Simulation between interconnected machines to optimise processes (design, production and product commissioning)
Simulation
Simulation between interconnected machines to optimise processes (design, production and product commissioning)
Horizontal/vertical integration
Integration and sharing of information between company functions/levels and between supply chain elements (internal and external)
OPTIMISATION OF RESOURCES
TIME
Less time spent on low-value activities, and more time available for high added value activities.
PEOPLE
Less risk and better ability to predict anomalies.
ECONOMY
Lower costs or higher value processes, through sustainable investments and novel solutions.
The Saras Group is one of the main European oil refining operators, and is also active in the electricity generation sector. Directly and through its subsidiaries, the Group sells and distributes petroleum products on national and international markets. In addition, the Group produces and sells electricity through its subsidiaries Sarlux Srl (IGCC plant) and Sardeolica Srl (wind farm). The Group also supplies industrial engineering and research services to the oil, energy and environmental sectors through its subsidiary Sartec Srl.