Gwangyang Steelworks Develops Communication Failure Detection System Between Equipment and Operators

Immediate Operator Response Enabled by Predictive Detection

POSCO Gwangyang Steelworks (headed by Ko Jae-yoon) announced on September 5 that it has developed a communication module anomaly detection system that enables real-time monitoring of communication failures between plant equipment and operators.

This system was developed as part of the ongoing efforts by Gwangyang Steelworks to build a "predictive anomaly model," which aims to ensure stable operation of equipment while simultaneously enhancing productivity and safety.

Panoramic View of Gwangyang Steelworks.

The "predictive anomaly model" is POSCO's proprietary intelligent factory technology that automates certain aspects of equipment operation and, based on computer systems, allows for the advance prediction of equipment failures.

The communication module anomaly detection system, introduced in the 6CGL (Continuous Galvanized Line), was developed in response to the fact that equipment operators previously could not immediately verify communication failures with the equipment when such failures occurred.

Each operator has been running the equipment based on real-time operational data transmitted from the equipment, which they monitor on computer screens. However, there have been issues where operational data was intermittently not transmitted due to temporary communication errors.

To address this, Gwangyang Steelworks developed a system that automatically detects a communication failure if the equipment does not send data for a certain period of time, immediately notifying the operator with an alert.

This allows operators to detect communication failures in advance and provides additional time to resolve the issue. Furthermore, the system can identify the specific location of the equipment where the communication failure occurred, enabling a faster response. In particular, it helps prevent operational shutdowns caused by communication failures and is ultimately expected to improve both productivity and product quality.

A representative from Gwangyang Steelworks stated, "We plan to actively expand the application of this communication module anomaly detection system, which has been introduced in the 6CGL, to other processes and locations as well. We will continue to broaden the use of predictive anomaly models and other intelligent factory technologies to further enhance equipment stability and productivity."