_____________________________________________________________________________________________________ Opta
Group for establishing an operational footprint in Turkey that would house R & D and technical resources . These resources would work in parallel with our regional R & D teams as our global product developments and promotions are aligned .”
Product enhancement
In terms of facilities , Mike highlights the use of advanced technologies and automation . “ This ranges from PLC-driven production software and laser-based safety barriers to autostops and robotics for palletizing and packaging . These not only help reduce some of the ergonomic stresses on our team , but also increase right first-time consistency and reliability . The whole focus is on innovation and trying to continually improve our operation , so we can distinguish ourselves with superior quality .
“ To stay ahead of the curve , we partner with bigger customers , who have their own R & D facilities and labs , and work closely with their metallurgical and operational engineers . We would rather spend our time in R & D creating something that is practical and viable , rather than theoretical . A lot of the time this keeps us at the forefront of technological advancements , because combining our knowledge with our customers is a powerful approach .”
Thanks to its extensive R & D program , Opta continues to evolve and introduce product lines aimed at enhancing steelmaking efficiency . “ We are investing in detection and optimization technologies such as SlagView , which provides a method to reduce tap time as well as reducing the negative cost and quality impact from furnace carryover slag . Another example , TruStir , uses sensor-based , advanced monitoring of stirring energy in the ladle along with live process data to fundamentally change the way operators use gas stirring for refining steel . All of these systems provide remote information for operators , giving customers a step toward removing employees from direct exposure to the steelmaking process , while at the same time enabling more repeatable results .
“ We are currently building and promoting our fourth generation of cored wire feeding machines both in North America and Europe simultaneously . This new generation feeder will utilize the latest in machine learning and AI integrated software for predictability and customer process efficiency .
Customer experience
“ Overall , we maintain a dynamic product development process with ten-to-20 prospective solutions in various stages at any given time ,” he continues . “ This pipeline currently houses three patent-pending products that we are looking to bring to market soon . We are also developing a steelmaking software companion tool designed to guide customers through complex metallurgical scenarios , providing the same level of detailed support our technical team regularly offers . This innovative technology will encapsulate the century-old expertise we ’ ve accumulated , allowing customers 24 / 7 access to knowledge and support .
“ Also , we have recently acquired Performix Metallurgical Additives . These initiatives illustrate our ongoing efforts to expand our product portfolio and
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