The Virtual Steel Plant

The Virtual Plant is a state-of-the-art training center and test engineering environment designed to support steel producers throughout the entire steel production lifecycle. This innovative solution addresses the crucial need for skilled operators and thoroughly tested automation systems in the steel industry. By employing a "digital twin" of the steel plant, the Virtual Plant ensures that operators are well-prepared and that automation systems are fully tested before the actual plant becomes operational. This approach minimizes risks and enhances efficiency, ensuring a smooth transition from construction to full-scale production.

The Virtual Plant provides a comprehensive training environment where operators can refine their skills in a safe, non-production setting. This virtual facility features a replica of the plant's automation systems and a duplicate of the control room, allowing operators to train without impacting actual production. The Virtual Plant also serves as a test and engineering environment, providing a platform for verifying software functionality and interfaces. This ensures continuous improvement and supports the software lifecycle by offering a test environment for automation changes. With these capabilities, the Virtual Plant meets the demands of steel producers regarding operator training, thoroughly tested systems, and a well-prepared workforce ready for rapid start-ups.

Benefits of the Virtual Plant

• Provides a safe training environment that does not affect steel production
• Ensures operators are fully prepared for high-performance operations
• Facilitates fast plant start-up with well-trained personnel
• Offers a nonproduction test environment for software lifecycle management
• Supports automation system commissioning and upgrades
• Enhances and maintains operator skills at a high level
• Utilizes a digital twin for accurate plant behavior simulation