SMS Group, a leading designer of metallurgical plants and machinery, in collaboration with Mugler and Ericsson, is building a private 5G network at its location in Hilchenbach, Germany. This network aims to explore real-time applications in the metallurgical industry, enabling large-scale automation and system testing. With data transmission speeds of up to 10 Gb/s, this network will facilitate safer, more flexible, and less emission-intensive manufacturing processes.
The metallurgical industry faces significant challenges in developing new materials and reducing energy consumption and emissions. To overcome these hurdles, automation and digitization within a real-time network environment are crucial. By introducing Ericsson’s private 5G network technology, SMS Group can test and further develop solutions for clients in the global metallurgical industry.
The private 5G network, implemented in a very short period of time, serves as a platform for various research projects, including 5G-Furios, Horizon 2020, Zero-SWARM, and CLOUD56. Their objective is to utilize the network for mobility applications, automated guided vehicles (AGV), industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), and applications for lone workers.
Stefan Richter, Head of Local Networks at Mugler, emphasizes the significance of this collaboration for industrial digitization. The partnership between SMS Group and Ericsson enables SMS Group to expand its reach in the steel industry using Ericsson’s 5G technology.
Jens Petri, Head of Technology and Partnerships at SMS Digital, highlights the value of the sensor solutions provided by the private 5G network. This scalable and easily integrable solution allows for data transmission and processing through 5G connectivity, providing insights into the production process. SMS Group aims to break down the barriers between physics, sensors, operational technology, and information technology.
In Germany, since 2019, it has been possible to apply for licenses and operate private industrial 5G networks. The German federal government reserved a 100 MHz frequency band from 3.7 GHz to 3.8 GHz for the local use of these networks. Siemens is responsible for supplying routers and technological support, while SMS Group collaborates with renowned research institutions such as the Fraunhofer Institute and TH Köln.
Many companies, including Mercedes-Benz Group, Big River Steel, and BOXBAY, are actively participating in pilot projects or are interested in establishing their own industrial 5G networks in collaboration with SMS Group. These partnerships demonstrate the growing demand for increased efficiency and sustainability in the metallurgical industry through the implementation of advanced 5G technologies.
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