We learn how to control the system using programmable logic controllers, monitor data and work with digital interfaces. The training space at Kamet Steel has taken an important step forward: a new training module from Schneider Electric, a leading global manufacturer of electrical equipment, has been opened here.
The “smart” simulator will help electricians and APCS specialists at the plant not only to control equipment, but to do so as adequately and energy-efficiently as possible, which is critical for Metinvest's enterprises.
The module combines a full range of equipment needed by personnel working with electrical equipment, automated process control systems and manufacturing process control to prepare employees for any scenario:
◾ analytics: working with an electronic event log for detailed analysis of emergency situations
◾ practical skills: from a manual start of switch spring to a full cycle of remote control
◾ safety: practising operating procedures in conditions that fully simulate production processes. To this end, a complete simulation of the control of the latest electric bridge crane No. 12A, which operates in the BOF-shop of Kamet Steel and includes the maximum number of features provided by Schneider systems, has been created.
Oleksandr DEHTIARENKO, lead electrical drive engineer at Kamet Steel's BOF-shop, project manager:
"From now on, trainees at our training centre will have access to 100% hands-on training with Schneider Electric equipment. We have collected everything in a single training simulator: from vacuum switches and frequency converters to intelligent PLC controllers and ET stations. It is a full-fledged digital training ground where specialists learn to program production processes and automated process control systems. What is the trick? The simulator allows you to ‘run’ the equipment through all possible operating modes. Employees learn how to configure frequency converters, soft starters, switching equipment, PLC controllers and ET stations, microprocessor protection for vacuum circuit breakers, and practise any scenarios in real time, but in safe conditions of the classroom."
Schneider Electric is a partner in the development of an educational centre at Kamet Steel for training Metinvest employees and students of the Metinvest Polytechnic technical university. The training programmes cover the entire life cycle of the equipment: from complex programming and operation to world-class system maintenance. Representatives of the company, plant managers and university lecturers cut the symbolic ribbon at the opening of the module in a concise and businesslike manner.
Mykhailo BUBNOV, General Director of Schneider Electric Ukraine:
"Schneider Electric is all about automation and smart grids. In today's world, high technology is what matters most. By providing Kamet Steel with our most advanced automation, power supply equipment and electric drives, we are investing in Ukraine's recovery today. It is our responsibility to provide software and knowledge to experts who will pass on this experience to young people tomorrow. Without intelligent systems and professional training, neither modern industry nor society as a whole can develop."
Employees and students will gain knowledge and practical skills in the operation, repair, maintenance and software of modern equipment from leading global brands with the support of Metinvest Polytechnic experts. University lecturers have undergone professional training in advance to work in these areas.
Yuriy SHRAMKO, lecturer at Metinvest Polytechnic:
"The new training centre at Kamet Steel is a place where global technology theory becomes practical experience. This project is a real proof of the effectiveness of the “education – science – production” model. Thanks to modern equipment, we are modernising the educational process for Metinvest employees and our students – from theory to practical programming and working with the latest systems. Our goal of training specialists who can quickly and confidently engage in the most complex production processes is becoming a reality."
Very soon, the educational space will open its doors to completely renovated, comfortable classrooms, and the first students will be able to appreciate the high-tech level of acquiring important modern competencies.
Mykhailo KOPTIEV, Director of Capital Construction and Investments of Kamet Steel:
"We are grateful to our partners at Schneider Electric for the opportunity to take staff training to a new level. Thanks to this cooperation, the approach has been radically changed: the focus is on working with intelligent systems. This is training where a mistake on the simulator becomes a valuable experience rather than an accident at work. Such experience is critical for the stable operation and further automation of production at Kamet Steel and all Metinvest enterprises."
