Relive the Production Process Automation Event 2024

Taste the atmosphere of the FHI Production Process Automation Event  

Suppliers, system integrators and end users: in fact they all work together remotely. Today FHI brings the three together during the Production Process Automation Event in the Van der Valk hotel in Vianen. The common thread is automating processes. From the best measuring instruments to a factory in the dark: everything is discussed. To give an impression of the atmosphere, I attended four seminars, which I will discuss later in the article. 

“Today I step out of the daily routine and let myself be inspired by companies from all kinds of industries.” – visitor FHI Event 

An unpredictable future

“Change has never been this fast. And it will never be this slow again.” With this, Jim ten Broeke from Advantech opens the session Today's solution for future automation systems. With a look at history, he tells about a trip to the moon, which was supported by bit computers. “And look where we are now. The future is unpredictable. Even ChatGPT can't put its finger on it. We can discuss it.” And this is done extensively at the stands in the central hall.  

Measuring is knowing

After a short break I continue my way to the Hamilton Company session. Two company employees talk about the sensors developed for an even more streamlined process. The sensors measure parameters in various sectors: from chemical and biopharmaceutical processes to yeast management in breweries. There are solutions for all protocols, connections or signals. 

Growing with FHI

I lack nothing at the FHI Event. During lunch I enjoy delicious sandwiches, salads and spring rolls. Business cards are exchanged. Networking and staying informed of the latest developments are priorities for my fellow visitors.  

“Today is a very useful day. Professionals are present at the lectures and stands who know exactly what developments there are to improve processes. As a result, I am once again up to date with the market and I know whether my company is still up to date. And I get to know people who help my company grow further.” 

Factory in the dark 

In the Montreal room, Peter Bouman from Batenburg Techniek kicks off the session with a nice story. “Twenty-five years ago I was visiting my brother. In the middle of the night he received a message from his factory: a malfunction. When asked if I wanted to come, I immediately knew the answer. What I found was a complete brick factory that operated without employees. Fantastic!" We get tips on the steps you need to take to start up a factory in the dark.  

“Ultimately, the most experienced person cannot compete with a smart computer.”

A nice ending from Yara  

We end the day with a well-known name: Yara. Perry Jaspers talks about integrating predictive maintenance with the Digital Production Platform. He shows the pitfalls and expectations you can have of predictive maintenance and also emphasizes that you must continue to use your own common sense. 

Curious about Perry's lecture?
read here more.

We talk about the day while enjoying a beer and delicious snacks. A visitor says: “I found the lectures educational and had an interesting conversation at the stand. We are fully inspired and are also thinking about connections that we can work on ourselves.” I also leave for home full of inspiration. On to the next FHI Event! 

Various disciplines come together from Tuesday 24 to Friday 27 September during World of Industry, Technology & Science.

Click here For more information.