Ceolin Group, a prominent entity in the agribusiness sector with over 17,000 hectares of rice production spanning Uruguaiana (RS), Brazil, and Argentina, has embraced the WEG Smart Machine (WSM) to modernize its irrigation methods.
This move comes in response to updated criteria from Brazil’s National Water and Basic Sanitation Agency (ANA), which emphasizes precise supervision of water extraction from the Uruguay River, fundamental to regional agriculture.
Implementing WEG Smart Machine
The Ceolin Group manages 170 pumping stations across expansive and remote locales. Previously, operations involved frequent travel for inspections, inflating costs, exposing workers to dangers, and slowing reaction times to malfunctions. Sometimes, pumps remained inactive for prolonged periods awaiting maintenance, which adversely impacted harvest productivity.
"We needed a smarter and more efficient way to operate, freeing up resources for strategic activities," stated Adriano A. Lottermann from Ceolin Group. "We were looking for alternatives that would allow remote monitoring and control, and our regular conversations with the WEG team helped us understand the potential of WEG Smart Machine."
Need for Predictable Solutions
The requirement for an integrated, predictable system was evident in daily automation tasks
The requirement for an integrated, predictable system was evident in daily automation tasks. "Before, we carried out scheduled inspections, but often the next day a pump was already blocked due to some event," explained Jossoel Meurer, a pioneer of Ceolin’s automation team.
"Our biggest challenge was increasing inspection frequency to ensure pump availability, and that was only possible with a platform that allowed us to see everything in real time."
WEG's Comprehensive Digital Solution
Addressing these operational hurdles, WEG implemented a full-scale digitalization solution with the WEG Smart Machine. Pump stations transitioned to being remotely monitored, offering real-time data feeds, event logs, and integrated cameras for visual reviews.
This digital platform centralized crucial data for strategic decisions and reduced the necessity for on-site visits. Furthermore, the system provided features like remote on/off control, programmable PLC logic, and instant notifications via the WEG Digital Notify app.
Enhancing Operational Efficiency
These tools facilitate predictive maintenance, ensuring greater motor and pump availability
With the continuous monitoring capabilities offered by WEGscan100 and Motion Fleet Management (MFM), operations have been fortified. These tools facilitate predictive maintenance, ensuring greater motor and pump availability, whereas sensors and cameras bolster security by documenting intrusions and issuing urgent alerts.
The result is a marked decrease in travel by technical teams, enhanced oversight of electrical and mechanical issues, regulatory compliance regarding water usage, and unification of multiple systems into one platform.
Advancing Sustainable Operations
"Collecting and analyzing field data is essential for decision-making. With WEG’s solution, we can monitor critical variables such as failure type, downtime, and event recurrence, ensuring safer and more efficient management," highlighted Matheus Oliveira Momoli from Ceolin Group.
By refurbishing the operation of its 170 pumping stations, the Ceolin Group reiterates its dedication to efficiency and sustainability while WEG strengthens its role as a technological ally to the agribusiness sector, propelling digital transformation and operational progress.
