The cement industry is at a crucial juncture, with digital transformation, sustainability, and automation shaping its future. The panel discussion explored key points on digitalisation, sustainability and automation, emphasising the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to modern cement manufacturing.

The webinar was moderated by Dr SB Hegde, Professor, Jain College of Engineering & Technology, Hubli; and Visiting Professor, Pennsylvania State University, USA.

Speakers included:

Dr Hegde emphasised the need for integrating emerging technologies with a multidisciplinary approach to enhance cement plant efficiency. He highlighted that “understanding of systems and how to integrate them” is essential for maximising the benefits of digital tools.

Sabjan echoed this sentiment, stressing that cement plants need to embrace a cultural and mindset shift to fully leverage digital technologies. He pointed out, “Software can do wonders for the plant, but only if the workforce understands and implements it effectively.” He warned against isolated implementations, advocating for a holistic approach where departments like OT, quality control and automation work together.

With sustainability becoming a global priority, cement manufacturers must adapt to new environmental regulations and carbon reduction goals. Dr Hegde posed a critical question, “How is the cement industry moving towards sustainability, and how can plants prepare for these changes?”

Sabjan responded by highlighting the importance of long-term planning and commitment. “Often, discussions happen, but after two months, we forget about them and restart from scratch. This approach will not work. We need a structured, goal-oriented plan with defined KPIs,” he said. Sabjan emphasised the need for a systematic approach, focusing on tangible metrics such as energy savings. “If a plant aims to improve energy efficiency by five percent, it must set this as a goal and track progress,” he suggested.

The discussion also underscored the need for strong leadership to drive digital adoption. “A motivated team and a dynamic leader can make all the difference,” Dr Hegde noted.

Strength and durability remain critical concerns in cement production. Goyal explained, “Machine learning-based lab technologies enable predictive analysis, allowing manufacturers to forecast 28-day, 7-day, and 1-day strengths before the material leaves the mill.” He also emphasised the importance of soft sensors, which “help predict strength and optimise mix design before production.”

He elaborated on the role of XRF/XRD analysis, “These tools provide elemental and mineralogical insights, allowing for quick adjustments to raw materials and ensuring consistent quality.” Furthermore, digital twins are revolutionising cement quality optimisation. “They allow us to simulate and test mix designs before implementation, reducing errors and optimising durability.”

As cement plants become increasingly digitalised, cybersecurity threats pose significant risks. Vaidya expressed concern that many manufacturers underestimate cybersecurity risks. “As a technology provider, I often struggle to convince cement manufacturers of the importance of cybersecurity. Some benefits are intangible but essential for plant security.”

He outlined major threats, including malware attacks, unauthorised network access, and operational disruptions. “Preventive measures include secure data transactions, network monitoring, and regular cybersecurity training for staff to minimise insider threats,” he said.

He urged cement companies to take cybersecurity seriously, “As digital transformation advances, cybersecurity is not an option—it is a necessity. Without proper security protocols, cement plants risk cyberattacks that could halt production.”

Dr Hegde agreed, adding, “People often ignore cybersecurity until they experience financial loss. Awareness must be proactive, not reactive.”

Dutta stated, “Advanced process control (APC) is a game-changer for cement manufacturing, allowing us to stabilise operations, optimise fuel efficiency, and reduce energy consumption through real-time data insights.”

He emphasised the transformative impact of real-time data analytics and advanced process control (APC) in cement manufacturing. He highlighted that APC enables manufacturers to optimise raw mix design, fuel efficiency and kiln operations through data-driven decision-making. By continuously monitoring critical parameters, APC minimises process variations, improves stability, and reduces energy consumption, leading to cost savings and enhanced productivity. Additionally, he stressed the role of predictive maintenance in preventing equipment failures, extending machinery lifespan and minimising downtime, ultimately ensuring consistent quality and operational efficiency in cement production.

With AI, robotics and digital twins transforming global cement production, the question arises, "Can Indian cement plants become fully autonomous within the next 5–10 years?"

Vokuda was skeptical about complete automation in the near future. “Indian cement plants will see significant automation, but full autonomy remains unlikely within a decade. A hybrid model, combining AI-powered decision-making with human oversight, is more practical.”

He highlighted key challenges, “Unlike developed nations, India’s low labour costs may make full automation less attractive. Additionally, digital twin technology in India is still in its early stages, focusing more on process twins than asset twins.”

Another challenge is data management. “AI-ML models require vast amounts of data, which necessitates ultra-low latency networks like 5G and edge computing. We are not yet at that level of technological maturity,” he explained.

Despite these hurdles, he remains optimistic, “While full automation may take longer, the industry will continue to evolve with advancements in digital twins, real-time analytics, and AI-driven insights.”

Experts agree that while technology holds immense potential, its successful implementation depends on cultural shifts, strong leadership, and structured execution.

Key takeaways from the discussion include:

• Integration of digital tools: Multidisciplinary collaboration is essential for successful implementation.

• Sustainability goals: Defined KPIs and a long-term approach are crucial.

• Quality optimisation: Machine learning, real-time analysis, and digital twins are improving cement strength and durability.

• Cybersecurity: As digital transformation progresses, cement plants must prioritise cybersecurity.

• Automation: While full autonomy is unlikely soon, AI and digital tools will play a growing role in decision-making.

As the industry moves forward, cement manufacturers must embrace technological advancements while ensuring resilience against cybersecurity threats and operational challenges. With the right strategies, India’s cement sector can achieve greater efficiency, sustainability, and innovation in the years to come.

ICR's virtual panel discussion was supported by FLSmidth Cement as the Presenting Partner and ABB as the Gold Partner.