Elval reassessing the optimization boundaries in aluminium rolling @Smart
Factory Conference
Elval and optiscale, a blend of industrial and academic expertise, presented the next
era of Smart Manufacturing at the 8th Smart Factory Conference.
Elval, in collaboration with optiscale, redefined the future of Smart Manufacturing at
the 8th Smart Factory Conference. Elval’s Optimisation Manager, Apostolos Besis,
and Dr. Stathis Plitsos, CTO & co-founder at optiscale, presented a groundbreaking
approach to aluminium rolling optimisation. Their presentation, titled “Reassessing
the Optimisation Boundaries in Aluminium Rolling”, explored tailored solutions that
pushed the limits of efficiency in industrial processes.
Aluminium processing is inherently complex, requiring deep insights into multiple
operational variables. The collaboration between Elval, a leading European
aluminium manufacturer, and optiscale, a spin-off from the ELTRUN research group
of the Athens University of Economics and Business, resulted in a novel production
scheduling model for aluminium hot rolling. This approach was proven to enhance
machine utilisation to over 95%, considering the current and future production goals.
By reassessing conventional methodologies, the project demonstrated that tailored
solutions, rather than one-size-fits-all industry tools, can deliver superior results.
Through a comprehensive analysis of existing processes, constraints were identified
and optimised to improve performance while maintaining cost efficiency and high-
quality standards.
Key takeaways from the presentation:
- Challenges and Objectives in Aluminium Hot Rolling – Addressing the complexities of production scheduling and efficiency.
- Tailored Optimisation vs. Standard Industry Tools – Demonstrating the value of customised strategies over generic solutions.
- Key Results and Impacts – Showcasing the significant improvements in throughput, resource allocation, and operational control
- Extensions and Applications – Exploring how these principles can be adapted to other industries.
Optimization as a Driver of Smart Manufacturing
Elval’s progressive approach integrated tailored processes, advanced technologies,
and human expertise to achieve a dynamic and intelligent manufacturing
environment. By considering different production sequences and strategies, the
collaboration enabled accurate decision-support for production scheduling that
enhanced throughput, optimised resource allocation, and improved inventory
management.
The synergy between Elval and optiscale highlighted the transformative power of
combining academic research with industrial expertise. This partnership underscored
Elval’s commitment to driving innovation in industrial engineering, setting new
benchmarks in manufacturing efficiency.
More than 200 industry leaders in smart manufacturing latest trends and innovations
gained invaluable insights into the future of digital transformation in manufacturing.
Elval’s presentation was not just about optimising aluminium rolling—it was about
leading the next evolution of industrial performance.