Ukrainian company Metinvest Digital, part of Metinvest Group, is actively implementing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to transform production processes in the metallurgical industry and optimize work in other sectors, including retail.
Ukrainian company Metinvest Digital, part of Metinvest Group, is actively implementing artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to transform production processes in the metallurgical industry and optimize work in other sectors, including retail.
This was stated by Maksym Balanyuk, Head of R&D Metinvest Digital, during a presentation where he demonstrated examples of the application of AI on Metinvest production lines.
One of the key areas of application of AI is quality control of metallurgical products.
Slab quality control: The AI-based system detects defects in slabs (large steel billets) by comparing images and classifying defects. Operators receive automatic prompts and recommendations on the need to remove the defective area. This significantly increases the accuracy and speed of control, considering that the annual production volume is about 480 thousand tons.
Defect detection on metal strip: AI systems are also used to detect defects on metal strip during longitudinal cutting of sheet metal. Cameras capture images at high speed (metal movement along the strip — 5 m/s), which is impossible for the human eye. This case is currently in the testing phase, but already demonstrates significant potential for improving product quality.
Another important development is the SPAIS platform, which is designed for monitoring production areas and public space analytics.
Hazardous area monitoring: The system monitors personnel presence in potentially hazardous areas, preventing accidents.
Control of the availability of PPE (personal protective equipment): AI checks whether employees are using the necessary protective equipment.
Fire and smoke identification: The system instantly detects signs of fire, allowing for a rapid response.
The same principles apply to public space analytics, such as in supermarkets. The system can track people’s behavior, helping businesses make decisions about optimal store location, optimizing product displays, or improving customer experience.
In general, the implementation of artificial intelligence allows Metinvest Digital not only to automate and accelerate processes, but also to significantly increase their accuracy, safety, and efficiency, as in heavy industry. We previously reported that smokers at Metinvest enterprises are already being monitored by AI.
