LafargeHolcim has launched its 'Plants of Tomorrow' project for its application of Industry 4.0 to its cement business over the next four years. The multinational aims to eventually apply the technology to its network of more than 270 integrated cement plants and grinding stations across 50 countries.

LafargeHolcim predicts that its 'Plants of Tomorrow' certified operation will show 15-20 per cent operational efficiency gains compared to the conventional plant. The company will use automation technologies, robotics, artificial intelligence, predictive maintenance, machine learning and digital-twin technologies for its entire production process. The company is already working on more than 30 pilot projects around the world, but the Siggenthal cement plant in Switzerland will be the lighthouse where the integration of all relevant modules will be tested for the global 'Plants of Tomorrow' initiative.

Solomon Baumgartner Aviles, Global Head Cement Manufacturing, said: "Transforming the way we produce cement is one of the focus areas of our digitalisation strategy and the ‘Plants of Tomorrow’ initiative will turn Industry 4.0 into reality at our plants. These innovative solutions make cement production safer, more efficient and environmentally fit. We are moving to fully data-driven operations in order to support further profitable growth as part of our Strategy 2022 – 'Building for Growth'."

LH MAQER, the company's new platform to identify the most impactful technologies and target start-up technology companies also aims at establishing new partnership models with both manufacturing and software companies.
 
Philipp Leutiger, chief digital officer: "Our global manufacturing expertise in cement is second to none. Now, with our LH MAQER platform, we open up our operating model to the creativity and ingenuity of some of the world’s most gifted and talented digital minds. We are already seeing the success of this approach in many of our operations globally."