Various initiatives aspects of the supply chain
Efforts to stabilize production
We are focusing on stabilizing production, including the operation of blast furnaces and coke ovens, which have a particularly significant impact. Currently, the tapping ratio of the blast furnaces remains at a low level, and we are also focusing on developing operational plans under these circumstances.
In such efforts to stabilize production, we also frequently use solutions using DX. For example, in the case of identifying abnormalities in machinery and equipment and preventing problems, regular inspections by manpower had been performed in the past, but now with the installation of a large number of wireless vibration sensors, it is possible to monitor them 24 hours a day, and thereby quickly identify and respond to abnormalities. Further, by centrally managing the collected data and analyzing it with AI and machine learning, we can now obtain even higher value-added information.
Concerning blast furnaces, because it is difficult to grasp the situation inside the blast furnace, there have been cases where the intuition and experience of skilled operators have been relied on. Nowadays, it is by using technology that measures temperature, pressure, gas distribution, and other conditions in one second with sensors installed inside the blast furnace body and reproduces conditions inside the furnace with three-dimensional images that we strive to stabilize blast furnace operations and improve production efficiency. Through this type of simulation, we are developing automatic control that predicts future operating conditions and optimizes operations.
In order to deliver products that meet customer requirements on time, our head office unit in charge of overall management of sales and operations coordinates the relevant corporate-wide product manufacturing plans every day, while keeping track of sales and production. The process control units in each steelworks receive the plan and manage the progress of each single product while keeping in mind the productivity of each manufacturing base. These units work for optimal processing from manufacturing to shipment, and delivering products as scheduled.
Improve productivity in domestic logistics
Approximately 60% of our domestic steel products are transported by about 200 coastal ships, which provide the primary means of transportation for industrial logistics. In the coastal shipping industry, as in other logistics industries, the shortage of workers has been a problem.
As one of the ways to answer the question of how to improve logistics, the Nippon Steel Group is working on improving logistics efficiency by establishing a logistics control center at its head office and utilizing the latest domestic logistics control system. Specifically, we consolidate the information needed for allocation and control of the coasters, such as their location data, progress rate of quay cargo handling at the steelworks, and the status of inventory at transfer points. We then perform real-time monitoring and operation, thereby improving transportation efficiency.
We believe that these efforts will lead to increased productivity and ease of work in domestic industrial logistics as well as in the domestic shipping industry, and will contribute to alleviating the shortage in the workforce.
[Function overview of the Logistics Control Center]
Dealing with the workforce shortage in domestic logistics
The Nippon Steel Group has therefore built a practical training ship, Reimei, and started its operation as one of the ways to secure crews. Many operators (shipowners) in the coastal shipping industry are small or medium-sized business persons and find it difficult to recruit and train new sailors even if they are willing because extra cabin space cannot be installed and the crew members find it burdensome to teach newcomers. Reimei is well designed with cabin space for an instructor and up to five trainee students, comfortable living space, a bridge, and a dining room, greatly contributing to the development of new sailors.
We will continue to make efforts for the sustainable development of domestic industrial logistics.
Practical training ship Reimei