Automation for Wireless Flow Measurement

Q: What is Emerson’s focus in the mining sector?

A: The company is repositioning this year around two portfolios, Automation Solutions and Commercial and Residential Solutions. The Automation Solutions business contains major product and service solutions, which are families related to control systems, regulation, measurement and analytical, final control, and specialized support and engineering solutions. Traditionally automation has focused on processes and not safety. In the future the growth of automation will be significant for safety and environmental applications. In the mining sector we are present throughout the supply chain, with applications covering variable measurement, flow, and pressure systems. Mining is a vital sector for our emerging markets portfolio, and therefore Mexico offers significant growth opportunities for the company for the next 3-5 years.

Q: What makes Emerson stand out among other process management companies in Mexico?

A: One investment that made a significant difference to Emerson’s value in Mexico was the decision to open a Mining Center of Excellence in Santiago, Chile around three years ago. At this center we are working in conjunction with the Chilean government to develop applications and solutions for the mining industry to be exported to other locations like Mexico, focusing on areas like control and water quality. Our Rosemont magnetic flow meters monitor the amount and quality of the water returned by mines to local rivers. In copper mining the monitoring of leaching pads is an extremely intensive process from a human capital and safety standpoint as they can extend to the size of a soccer field. Emerson utilizes automated monitoring to measure wireless technology flow, pressure, temperature, and level. Previously operators had to recruit personnel to physically take measurement points surrounded by extremely dangerous substances, but now all the variables and levels can be monitored with our systems and instruments. The company’s portfolio allows us to manage complex projects while improving reliability, safety, and productivity.

Q: How would you compare the country to other international markets?

A: One of the benefits of the Mexican mining industry is that it is mostly privately owned and developed, which means that players frequently adopt best practices. Mexico is on par to what Emerson has experienced in other international markets like Australia and Chile. However, the country still has obstacles to overcome when it comes to reliability, safety, and the environment. Mexico is one of the largest countries Emerson serves, and the company has 15,000 employees and 20 manufacturing facilities locally. The country has several benefits, such as the fact that many of our instruments, valves, and control systems are manufactured locally. We have regional offices and a solid network of local business partners. Our offices allow us to be in any mine within minutes, as that is what the market demands. An hour of downtime could imply US$250,000 of lost production at a gold mine and players will not risk sourcing services from a company that is not local and fast.

Q: How do you face companies that are concerned about the lack of human capital in automation?

A: Emerson chooses to see it more as a complement to human capital that allows businesses to make more informed decisions. Instead of having people frequently go to the field to take critical flow control measurements, our instruments allow experts to access variables that can boost day to day productivity, reliability, efficiency, and safety. Mines are a tough environment and wireless instrumentation allows players to monitor more variables than what was possible 20 years, which is a major advance. The incorporation of more instruments in the network provides greater reliability and automation allows operators a clearer image of their operations to make wiser improvements and decisions.

Q: What role does Emerson want to play within the mining sector?

A: Emerson wants to differentiate itself from other suppliers by transforming into a trusted advisor that not only delivers equipment but entire solutions. We are committed to helping companies improve efficiency, productivity, and their overall business results. Emerson is a consultant that mining companies can contact to find solutions for their toughest problems. We value a local presence in manufacturing. Emerson is planning on building two additional manufacturing plants in the next two years.