Author: Brittany Rome

RED Group Ranks #712 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 List

Posted on August 15, 2024 by - Uncategorized

RED Group Makes 2024 Inc. 5000 List

We are thrilled to announce that RED Group has secured a spot on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list, ranking at #712 overall, #7 in Louisiana, and #5 in Engineering. This is our second time being recognized on this prestigious list, having first appeared in 2019 at #3998. Our progress over the past few years is a reflection of our ongoing commitment to excellence and growth.

In addition to our Inc. 5000 recognition, RED Group has also been honored with the LED LA Growth Leader Award and named one of the City Business Best Places to Work. Our commitment to growth is evident in our recent achievements, including a 97% increase from 2021 to 2022 and a further 35% rise from 2022 to 2023. We’ve also expanded our presence into new markets, opening offices in Houston and Lafayette, with more locations planned for the near future. These milestones reflect our strategic approach and ongoing dedication to excellence.

“We’re honored to be included on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list surrounded by such prominent organizations. Our mission is an important one: Partner with critical infrastructure asset owners as they scale and modernize safely, efficiently, and securely; our team wakes up every day and progresses it with steadfast determination…and we’re just getting started. The credit for this achievement goes to the RED Group team 100%; we also thank our partners and clients for trusting us with such responsibility,” said Carl Fangue, CEO.

“As we look to the future, we are excited about the opportunities ahead. We are committed to delivering even greater value to our clients and continuing our upward trajectory. This award is a result of the hard work and dedication of all of our RED Group team members.  Thank you for being part of our story. We look forward to the future and all the possibilities it holds,” added Kyle Remont, President.

For more information about the Inc. 5000 list and the criteria used for rankings, please visit Inc. 5000.

The Inc. 5000 list, established in 1982, is widely recognized as the benchmark for identifying the nation’s fastest-growing private companies. Earning a place on this list again is a significant achievement, and we are honored to be among such innovative and successful businesses.

Navigating the Future: A Roadmap for the Digital Transformation of Industrial Equipment

Posted on June 5, 2024 by - Digital Transformation, SCADA

A Roadmap for the Digital Transformation of Industrial Equipment
Written by Blake Cole, ICS Consulting Manager, Louisiana

In the rapidly evolving landscape of industrial technology, the journey towards Digital Transformation is not just a trend; it’s an essential progression businesses must embrace to stay competitive within their industries. But navigating this transformation can be daunting.

In this blog post, we will guide you through a practical, iterative approach to digital transformation, focusing on enhancing operational efficiencies and ensuring safety. You’ll learn about the key steps and considerations for beginning your digital transformation journey, from manual instrumentation and local insight to leveraging historical data for predictive maintenance. Join us as we explore how to strategically implement these changes to optimize your operations and safeguard your equipment.

From a Run-to-Failure Mindset to Condition Monitoring for More Informed Decisions

The starting point for many organizations is manual monitoring. This involves periodically examining the condition of the industrial equipment by taking manual readings with monitoring devices, such as infrared thermometers or handheld vibration meters. While this method sets the groundwork for understanding the equipment’s behavior, it is time-consuming and relies heavily on operators to detect anomalies. This approach poses risks to both operational efficiency and safety, highlighting the need for a more integrated solution.

1. Instrumentation and Local Insight

Introducing instrumentation for local readings improves the immediate accessibility of diagnostic data. Operators can quickly assess equipment conditions through indicators for temperature, pressure, level, and vibration. This development marks a step towards greater efficiency, though it still depends on physical rounds and manual intervention for anomaly detection.

2. Local Condition Monitoring: A Leap Forward

The integration of a Local HMI and PLC System transforms the monitoring process. This setup improves operational efficiency by allowing operators to gain real-time insights into equipment conditions across multiple units, with alarms signaling out-of-tolerance measurements.  Additionally, safety measures can be enhanced by implementing automated shutdowns when an abnormal condition exists; however, with a dependency on manual resets, these shutdowns could lead to extended downtimes if not supervised properly.

3. Embracing Remote Condition Monitoring

Remote monitoring represents a significant advancement, offering controllers real-time visibility into the status of various pieces of equipment across multiple sites from afar. The implementation of a Remote SCADA System, complemented by camera installations and mobile notifications, ensures that both control room operators and local personnel are always in the loop when an equipment anomaly occurs. This approach not only elevates operational efficiency but also significantly enhances safety by allowing remote interventions to keep individuals out of harm’s way.

4. The Power of Historical Data

Recording historical data on instrumentation and alarms gives engineers crucial information to analyze and address issues before they escalate. This data helps focus on recurring nuisance alarms, reducing alarm fatigue and identifying opportunities to improve operational decision-making. However, this step still requires manual data review by engineers to identify impactful changes, making the process inefficient.

5. Data-Driven Maintenance and Safety Decisions

Leveraging historical data for maintenance scheduling embodies the essence of predictive analysis. With systems monitoring equipment for anomalies and reporting these issues to engineers and operators, time is used more efficiently. This proactive approach uses historical data to alert when equipment parameters are out of tolerance, enabling reliability engineers to determine the optimal timing for maintenance activities. This approach minimizes downtime, reduces waste, and significantly enhances safety by seeking to predict and prevent abnormal operating conditions.

Your Partner in Transformation

Embarking on a digital transformation journey requires a well-thought-out plan that aligns with your digital vision. Each step of this process should not only advance your operational capabilities but also integrate seamlessly into the broader system architecture. At RED Group, we specialize in guiding asset owners through this complex landscape, ensuring that technology, data, and security are interwoven into every phase of your project.

The road to Digital Transformation is both challenging and rewarding. It promises not just enhanced operational efficiencies and improved safety conditions, but also a competitive edge in the ever-changing industrial sector. To start your journey with a trusted partner, contact us today. Let us help you evaluate your system and develop a comprehensive plan for your digital transformation.

The future is digital, and with RED Group, your journey towards transformation is in capable hands. Let’s navigate this path together, ensuring a safer, more efficient, and technologically advanced operational environment.

 

Blake Cole, the ICS Consulting Manager at RED Group in Louisiana, possesses over 15 years of expertise in designing and implementing Industrial Control Systems across diverse industries. He specializes in delivering tailored solutions to clients, empowering them to advance their digital transformation initiatives forward.

RED Group Names Jake Mattix Partner

Posted on December 11, 2023 by - Uncategorized

RED Group Names Jake Mattix Partner

RED Group is thrilled to announce that Jake Mattix, Director of Business Development, has achieved Partner status in the company.

“I am honored to be a partner here at RED Group,” said Jake. “I’ve learned so much during my tenure here and I could not have achieved Partner status without the help from our team that we have strategically built to support our clients.  We’ve surrounded ourselves with some of the best folks in the industry, and it shows in the quality of our work.  Many thanks to Kyle and Carl for believing in me and trusting that I will always do right by our staff and our clients.  I look forward to the future here and each new challenge that comes with it.”

Kyle Remont, Founder and President, added, “Jake has been a key team member here at RED Group for over a decade, and the impact he’s made is highly visible, and continues to expand.  His ability to act in the best interests of RED Group, our clients, and the entire team, simultaneously, is inspiring.  We look forward to another decade of achievements via Jake’s leadership and contributions from the entire RED Group team.”

“Jake’s passion to effectively partner with our clients, as they modernize and aim to achieve increased resiliency, is certainly one of the keys to RED Group’s success,” said Carl Fangue, CEO. ” Additionally, at RED Group, our core values are central to how we work as a team, how we work with clients, and how we define success.  Not only did Jake help create our core values (‘Be Dependable’, ‘Cultivate Relationships’, and ‘Strive for Excellence’), he lives them and promotes them, continuously.”

 

 

RED Group is a leading Industrial Control Systems (ICS) Technology & Integration firm, specializing in Automation, Operational Technology (OT) Consulting, and Cybersecurity solutions. We engineer and integrate our clients’ OT systems with four outcomes in mind:  Control, Safety, Insights, and Security.  Our expertise in operational technology, systems engineering, and systems integration enables us to thoughtfully guide organizations through their journey towards optimization, stability, and resiliency.  We also have an inhouse UL 508A/UL698A Panel Shop where we fabricate custom industrial control panels. We are headquartered in New Orleans, LA with additional offices in Lafayette, LA and Houston, TX and serve a client base of North America, presently.

The Crucial Role of Security in IIoT Solutions

Posted on November 15, 2023 by - Digital Transformation, IIoT, IOT, SCADA

Written by Jordan Deville, Sr. ICS Consultant | OT Consultant

 

As the world continues to embrace digital transformation, industrial settings such as chemical plants and manufacturing facilities are not exempt from this transition. The emergence of Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) technology has paved the way for enhanced automation, improved operational efficiency, and increased productivity in these environments. However, it is essential to address the critical aspect of security in IIoT implementations to ensure the protection of valuable assets and data.

In this blog post, we will explore the significance of security in IIoT and highlight the measures necessary to safeguard your industrial operations.

Physical Security

At the sensor level, physical security plays a crucial role in IIoT systems. Ensuring the separation of IIoT sensors from control system sensors is imperative to prevent unauthorized access or data manipulation. By implementing physical separation, damage to the overall integrity and reliability of the system, both control and IIoT, is minimized.

Network Security

Layered network security is vital in protecting IIoT systems. While general IT network security is typically layered on top of IIoT, it is essential to consider that IT network security systems are primarily designed for conventional data flow and authentication. In contrast, IIoT requires specific configurations that focus on control system data flow standards. IT network security systems may be updated every two to three years, while IIoT systems often span 15 to 20 years between updates. As such, there are many complexities that must be accounted for anytime the IT system needs an update. Therefore, it is crucial to bridge the gap between the two and ensure the security of both systems.

Cloud / Local Hybrid Infrastructure

Many IIoT systems require both cloud and on-premise server infrastructure to process and integrate data effectively. However, this integration introduces the challenge of establishing secure network tunneling between the different types of infrastructure. Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) or authentication using Transport Layer Security (TLS) certificates are both valid options. However, the latter requires more advanced configuration and regular IT maintenance. By implementing these measures, you can secure the data flow between cloud and on-premise servers in your IIoT system.

Data Security

The security design of a standalone IIoT system primarily involves focusing on user and system access control to prevent unauthorized entry. Additionally, the tag-level security provided and supported by most IIoT and Control System manufacturers can offer an added layer of protection. Integration with third-party systems, especially for data analysis, must be carefully controlled to ensure critical data remains adequately protected and does not fall into the wrong hands.

Control System Adjacent System Architecture

Well-designed architecture connecting an IIoT system with the primary control system is crucial to maintaining data security. It is essential to ensure that data is only produced by the control system and consumed by the IIoT system to prevent accidental data leakage or unauthorized data control. Likewise, data should not be allowed into the control system from the IIoT system. By implementing robust security measures, you can have full control over the data flow between these interconnected systems without compromising their integrity.

Why Choose RED Group for Your Secure IIoT System

RED Group, certified as an IIoT expert by Cirrus Link, has successfully deployed IIoT solutions for multiple customers. Not only do we possess extensive expertise in the IIoT field, but we are also specialists in control systems and OT network systems for industrial cybersecurity. Our unique qualification allows us to design and implement highly secure IIoT systems tailored to your specific needs.

Conclusion

Security is an indispensable aspect of any IIoT system, ensuring the protection of valuable assets and data in industrial settings. By prioritizing physical security, layered network security, secure cloud/on-premise hybrid infrastructure, data security, and control system adjacent system architecture, you can safeguard your operations from potential threats. As an IIoT-certified firm with expertise in control systems and OT network systems, RED Group stands ready to assist you in designing and implementing secure IIoT solutions. Reach out to us today and let us help you navigate the path to a secure IIoT future.

 

Jordan Deville, Sr. ICS Consultant and OT Consultant of RED Group’s Houston office, has nearly a decade of experience in Industrial Control systems design and implementation. He has spent the past several years building and refining control system network systems especially focusing on cybersecurity and network safety.

RED Group Named Honoree in 2023 Best Places to Work Award

Posted on October 11, 2023 by - Uncategorized

RED Group - Best Places to Work Honoree

We are thrilled to announce that RED Group has been named as a City Business 2023 Best Places to Work honoree. This prestigious award is based on the feedback of our employees through a third-party survey, and we are so honored to be recognized for our commitment to creating a positive and supportive workplace culture.

At RED Group, our core values are Be Dependable, Cultivate Relationships, and Strive for Excellence. We believe that our employees are our greatest asset, and we are committed to providing them with the resources and support they need to succeed. We are proud to be a workplace where employees feel valued, respected, and challenged.

This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our entire team. We are grateful to each and every one of our employees for their contributions to making RED Group a “Best Place to Work”.

We are excited to continue building on our success and creating a workplace where everyone can thrive. Thank you to our clients and partners for your support. We look forward to continuing to exceed your expectations in the years to come.

Congratulations to our team on this incredible achievement. Learn more about joining our Award Winning Team here!

Adding Functionality to Control Systems with IIoT

Posted on October 4, 2023 by - Digital Transformation, IIoT, IOT, SCADA

IIoT & Functional Control Systems
Written by Jordan Deville, Sr. ICS Consultant | OT Consultant

 

In the fast-paced world of industrial settings, staying ahead of the curve is essential. In our ongoing exploration of digital transformation, we’re delving deep into the powerful realm of the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) and how it can supercharge your existing control systems.

In the heart of every large industrial organization lies a sophisticated control system, silently orchestrating operations. However, extracting critical data from this system has often been a challenge, confined to a select few with specialized access. This data is the lifeblood of understanding the health and performance of your facility.

In the conventional scenario, departments relied on periodic reports from technical or operations teams to obtain this vital information. But what if there was a way to access real-time data, enabling more informed decision-making across various disciplines?

Realizing the Vision: Examples in Action

Consider a facility manager who yearns for real-time monitoring of output or the ability to track utilization, or maintenance personnel aiming to predict equipment maintenance by tracking downtimes. Picture the finance team seamlessly accessing live input and output data for precise sales and purchasing reports, or the reliability and environmental team effortlessly tracking energy usage for compliance and early detection of potential issues.

A Glimpse into the Past

Traditionally, this level of integration was a complex endeavor. Multiple SCADA systems were often employed to manage each of these tasks independently, if they were implemented at all. Without such systems, reliance on periodic reports from the Controls or Operations team was the only recourse.

IIoT: Bridging the Gap

Enter Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), a transformative force in the industrial landscape. IIoT transcends the limitations of conventional approaches by harnessing data not only from the control system but also from a myriad of other sources, including databases, sales information, and even weather data.

Unlike traditional systems, IIoT operates separately from the main facility controls, with no capability to override existing systems. This separation from control network access means that it adheres to standard IT controls, ensuring a secure and manageable environment for user access.

The RED Group Advantage

At RED Group, we’ve earned our stripes as IIoT pioneers, proudly certified by Cirrus Link and renowned for delivering cutting-edge IIoT solutions. With a track record of successful deployments across multiple industries, we possess not only the expertise in IIoT but also an in-depth understanding of control systems and OT network systems, ensuring the highest level of cybersecurity for connected systems.

Elevate Your Operations with RED Group

Ready to unlock the full potential of your control systems through IIoT? Reach out today, and let’s embark on a journey towards a more connected, data-driven future. Contact us to learn more about our IIoT solutions and how they can revolutionize your facility’s operations.

 

Jordan Deville, Sr. ICS Consultant and OT Consultant of RED Group’s Houston office, has nearly a decade of experience in Industrial Control systems design and implementation. He has spent the past several years building and refining control system network systems especially focusing on cybersecurity and network safety.

Harnessing the Power of IIoT for Remote Site Monitoring

Posted on September 13, 2023 by - Digital Transformation, IIoT, IOT

Remote Site Monitoring with IIoT
Written by Sebastian Hillis, ICS Consulting Supervisor

 

As a decision-maker in the industrial landscape, you understand the challenges of managing multiple remote sites spread across vast geographic areas. Whether you have 10 sites scattered throughout a single state or 200 sites scattered throughout the country, the need for real-time visibility and efficient monitoring is vital. This is where the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) steps in to revolutionize the way you manage and monitor your remote sites.

The Challenge: Monitoring Remote Sites Effectively

Consider a scenario where you manage a network of remote sites, each comprising a relatively simple process, such as a few skid packages or a substantial pump/compressor setup. Your goal is to gain real-time visibility into the operational status of each site, all from a centralized location—be it your corporate headquarters, field office, or even your mobile device. Traditionally, achieving this level of oversight might involve installing custom control systems at each site, coupled with a complex and expensive communication infrastructure. However, this approach can be both cost-prohibitive and operationally cumbersome.

The Solution: Unleashing IIoT’s Potential

The very technologies that underpin IIoT can be harnessed to create efficient and cost-effective remote monitoring capabilities for scenarios just like the one described above.

  • Utilizing Low-Bandwidth Networks: Leverage low-bandwidth networks, such as remote cellular data networks, to transmit critical process data reliably. These networks enable you to feed essential Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to your central monitoring hub, facilitating real-time tracking of site health and productivity.
  • Embracing Cloud Infrastructure: The cloud becomes your ally in circumventing the need for heavy upfront hardware investment. By hosting your data on cloud infrastructure, you gain enhanced reliability, availability, and scalability. This translates to reduced costs and increased flexibility in managing your remote sites.
  • Leveraging Wireless Sensors and Gateways: Rather than opting for complex and expensive custom Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) panels, consider employing low-cost wireless sensors or IIoT gateways. These unobtrusive devices can collect additional process data and transmit it to the cloud seamlessly, providing a comprehensive overview of your remote sites’ performance.
  • Aggregating Data for Informed Decision-Making: IIoT shines when it comes to collecting and aggregating data. By implementing IIoT solutions, you can effortlessly gather data from multiple remote sites and funnel it into your cloud infrastructure. Once there, this data can fuel an array of powerful tools, including historical data storage, intuitive KPI dashboards, AI-driven predictive maintenance platforms, and much more.

Real-World Success: RED Group

At RED Group, we’re at the forefront of IIoT innovation, certified by Cirrus Link for our expertise in this transformative technology. With a proven track record of successfully deploying IIoT solutions for clients in Water/Wastewater, RNG, Oil & Gas, and more, we’re well-equipped to assist you in harnessing the true potential of IIoT for your remote site monitoring needs.

As you navigate the complex landscape of remote operations oversight, remember that IIoT offers a streamlined, cost-effective, and technologically advanced solution. By embracing IIoT’s capabilities, you can empower your organization with real-time data insights, enhanced decision-making, and ultimately, improved operational efficiency.

Ready to elevate your remote site monitoring? Reach out to RED Group Today! Take the first step towards realizing the benefits of IIoT for your remote sites. Contact us today to explore how RED Group’s IIoT-certified expertise can help you implement a tailored and effective remote site monitoring solution. Unleash the potential of IIoT and revolutionize the way you manage your industrial operations.

 

Sebastian Hillis, ICS Supervisor of RED Group’s Houston office, has extensive experience in integrating industrial robotics for applications ranging from simple pick-and-place to vision-guided, coordinated assembly.

Exploring the Power of IIoT in the Digital Age

Posted on August 23, 2023 by - Digital Transformation, IIoT, IOT

What is IIoT?
Written by Jordan Deville, Sr. ICS Consultant | OT Consultant

 

In today’s fast-paced digital era, the concept of the Internet of Things (IoT) has revolutionized the way we interact with technology. IoT refers to a vast network of devices that connect and exchange data with other IoT devices and the cloud. These devices are often embedded with sensors, software, or other mechanical and digital machines or consumer objects, enabling seamless communication and automation.

Now, let’s take it a step further: The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) is a rapidly growing technology that is transforming the way industrial facilities operate. IIoT connects physical devices, sensors, and machines to the internet, allowing them to collect and share data in real time. This data can be used to improve efficiency, optimize operations, and increase uptime.

IIoT: Bridging the Gap Between Technology and Industry

IIoT builds upon the foundation of IoT. Unlike standard IoT, which has a diverse range of applications in consumer settings, the primary objective of IIoT is to enhance industrial processes and operations.

At its core, IIoT embraces the seamless integration of smart devices, machinery, and equipment in the industrial domain. These devices are purpose-built to work in conjunction with existing or forthcoming control systems, making data availability and distribution the central aspect of IIoT.

While IIoT shares the same underlying concept as IoT, it is distinguished by its emphasis on the harsh industrial environment and the specific needs of various industrial sectors, such as chemical plants and manufacturing facilities. In many cases, IIoT sensors are derived from the proven field sensors used in other applications within Industrial Control Systems.

IIoT can benefit your facility in a number of ways, including:

  • Improved Efficiency: IIoT can help you to improve the efficiency of your operations by identifying areas where you can reduce waste and improve productivity.
  • Real Time Data Sharing: IIoT can allow for real time data of the facility to be shared with both internal and external teams that would not typically have control system access. This can allow for corporate, management, or business partners to get a view into different facility operations without having to build sophisticated systems for access to the more sensitive full control system.

RED Group: Your Trusted Partner in IIoT Integration

At RED Group, we take pride in being leaders in all things related to Industrial Control Systems. With our deep expertise and understanding of IIoT, we are here to guide you on your journey towards implementing a robust IIoT system tailored to your unique requirements. RED Group can support your operations in a variety of IIoT applications, such as:

  • Select the Right IIoT Devices: We can help you to select the right IIoT devices for your needs. We will consider the specific requirements of your facility and help you to choose the devices that will provide the most benefit.
  • Design and Implement Your IIoT System: We can design and implement your IIoT system to achieve your organizational goals. We will work with you to ensure that the system is properly integrated with your existing infrastructure.
  • Provide Ongoing Support: We will provide ongoing support for your IIoT system. We will help you to troubleshoot problems and keep your system up and running.

Take Away

In the upcoming series of blog posts, we will delve into how IIoT can be harnessed to bring substantial benefits to any facility. We will illustrate real-world examples of how IIoT is revolutionizing industrial processes, enhancing efficiency, and improving overall performance. Moreover, we will highlight the specific ways in which RED Group can assist you in the seamless integration of IIoT systems tailored to your unique needs. To learn more about how IIoT can revolutionize your operations, contact us today – our team of experts is ready to assist you in harnessing the power of IIoT for your business’s success!

 

Jordan Deville, Sr. ICS Consultant and OT Consultant of RED Group’s Houston office, has nearly a decade of experience in Industrial Control systems design and implementation. He has spent the past several years building and refining control system network systems especially focusing on cybersecurity and network safety.

Revolutionizing the RNG Industry with AI

Posted on August 2, 2023 by - Digital Transformation, IOT

Transforming RNG with AI
Co-Written by Karl Nicholas, Business Development Manager

 

The Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) industry is experiencing remarkable growth as the world seeks sustainable and eco-friendly energy sources. As this industry expands, it encounters unique challenges that demand innovative solutions. Fortunately, as part of a larger digitalization journey – which encompasses technologies such as digital twin, advanced analytics, and the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) – Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a game-changer, offering transformative capabilities to optimize operations and maximize efficiency. In this installment of our Digital Transformation blog series, we will explore five compelling use cases where AI can revolutionize the RNG industry, enhancing predictive maintenance, quality control, process optimization, anomaly detection, and predictive modeling.

 

Predictive Maintenance

One of the critical challenges in the RNG industry is ensuring the smooth operation of complex equipment. RED Group leverages advanced AI algorithms to analyze sensor data and equipment performance, enabling predictive maintenance. By monitoring the condition of crucial components such as compressors and boilers, RED Group’s AI solutions can both identify patterns and anomalies that indicate potential failures or maintenance requirements, as well as provide the opportunity to extend preventative maintenance intervals if the equipment is showing no warning signs. These proactive approaches minimize downtime, reduce maintenance costs, and optimize overall plant efficiency.

Quality Control

Maintaining consistent and high-quality RNG products is crucial for the industry’s credibility and market competitiveness. AI offers a powerful solution by monitoring the composition and quality of incoming and outgoing gases. Advanced techniques such as gas chromatography or mass spectrometry can be integrated with AI processes to analyze data in real-time. This enables precise monitoring and control of the RNG composition, ensuring that the final product meets rigorous standards consistently.

Process Optimization

Efficient and sustainable RNG production relies heavily on optimizing complex processes. AI can analyze vast amounts of data collected during the production process and make real-time adjustments to optimize operations. By continuously monitoring temperature, pressure, flow rates, and other relevant variables, AI algorithms can identify opportunities to reduce energy consumption, enhance yields, and improve overall process efficiency. These optimizations not only reduce costs but also contribute to greener and more sustainable RNG production.

Anomaly Detection

In an industry where even minor disruptions can lead to significant losses, the ability to detect anomalies and address them promptly is crucial. AI can monitor data streams in real-time, detecting anomalies that may indicate equipment malfunctions, leaks, or other operational issues. By leveraging machine learning algorithms, AI systems can quickly recognize abnormal patterns and notify plant operators, enabling them to take immediate action to prevent costly downtime and optimize safety.

Predictive Modeling

Making informed decisions based on accurate forecasts is a key factor in the success of RNG plants. AI can utilize historical and real-time data to create predictive models that forecast production levels, feedstock availability, and market trends. By analyzing a range of variables, such as weather patterns, demand fluctuations, and regulatory changes, AI-powered predictive models provide plant operators with valuable insights to optimize operations, plan investments, and stay ahead of the competition.

 

Take Away

The RNG industry stands at the forefront of renewable energy, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional natural gas. By embracing AI technologies, RNG plants can unlock immense potential for efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness. From predictive maintenance to quality control, process optimization, anomaly detection, and predictive modeling, AI empowers the industry to overcome challenges and achieve new levels of performance. By harnessing the capabilities of AI, RNG companies can secure a greener future and contribute to a sustainable energy landscape.

Ready to unlock the full potential of AI in the RNG industry? Contact us today to learn how RED Group can help revolutionize your operations and drive your RNG plant towards greater success!

 

Karl Nicholas is a technology enthusiast and brings many years of experience working and managing various projects in areas such as Cybersecurity, Engineering, IoT, Digital Transformation, and more.

Advancing Your Robotics Project with RED Group

Posted on July 12, 2023 by - Digital Transformation, IOT

Overcome Manufacturing Challenges with our Robotic Integration Solutions
Written by Sebastian Hillis, ICS Consulting Supervisor

 

In today’s fast-paced manufacturing world, businesses are constantly seeking innovative solutions to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve the overall customer experience. With the increasing digitalization of the world, the popularity of robotics in the manufacturing industry has skyrocketed. In fact, robotic sales in North America experienced a remarkable 11% growth in 2022 compared to the previous year. It’s no surprise that robotics has garnered such attention and demand, given its ability to address critical challenges like staffing shortages. However, despite the benefits, integrating robotic solutions into existing systems remains a major struggle for many end-users. 

The Challenge 

One major pain point is the poor integration of robotics into the wider MES/SCADA/IIoT environment. Robotic installations are often automated to streamline processes like assembly, but without integrating fully into the existing MES, SCADA, or IIoT platforms, it is difficult to utilize data for advanced analytics and insight into operations. This can significantly limit the potential of robotics to improve overall business operations. 

Another challenge is space and cost constraints. Smaller operators may have limited space to work with, making it difficult to incorporate a bulky robotic installation. Similarly, the perceived cost of the initial installation and ongoing maintenance and support costs can discourage customers from embracing robotic solutions, despite the rapid return on investment that robotics can provide. However, it is worth noting that cobots, or collaborative robots, require less auxiliary equipment and can be implemented in tight spaces, making them a cost-effective solution. 

Moreover, some clients shy away from robotics due to a lack of internal resources, assuming, for example, that they will need a full-time robotics expert on staff. With effective integration, however, robotics can be made simple – errors can be pinpointed, corrective actions can be automated, and the robot can be made resistant to “mystery crashes”. Additionally, cobots offer simple setup and can be programmed directly by operators, making them more accessible to end-users. 

The Solution 

RED Group not only assists in identifying opportunities for robotic implementation based on clients’ desired outcomes – we also offer fully integrated robotic skids with the ability to easily integrate directly with IIoT, MES, and SCADA platforms for a number of benefits, such as asset health monitoring, quality control and downtime tracking, and real-time process data and shop floor monitoring. Our knowledgeable staff offers robust support with extensive diagnostics, error identification, automatic homing, and other features that make robotics easy to operate and troubleshoot. By choosing RED Group, end-users can leverage the full potential of robotic solutions without worrying about integration challenges. 

Take Away 

The use of robotics in the manufacturing industry is an integral part of the overall digital transformation journey. While industrial robotics has advanced to a point where programming the robot itself has become simpler – although we can help with this, too – future-facing organizations still need to enable the next step of greater shop floor autonomy and integration into existing platforms. The need for integrator support has shifted from the programming of the robot itself to the data collection, flexibility, and integration of the robot into the wider manufacturing environment. Employing robotics as part of a greater digital transformation strategy can increase efficiency, reduce downtime, and make the manufacturing environment safer for workers. 

RED Group’s robotic integration solutions offer end-users a way to address the pain points that come with implementing robotics in their manufacturing processes. By integrating robots into the wider MES/SCADA/IIoT environment, providing cobots for applications with tight space constraints, and offering robust support and diagnostics, RED Group empowers organizations to take the next step in their digital transformation journey. Contact us today to learn more about our solutions and how we can support your organization.

 

Sebastian Hillis, ICS Supervisor of RED Group’s Houston office, has extensive experience in integrating industrial robotics for applications ranging from simple pick-and-place to vision-guided, coordinated assembly.