The best of both worlds: Hybrid digital solutions

Blogs

The best of both worlds:
Hybrid digital solutions

By Viraj Gore, Process Manager, Lummus Digital

The energy industry is faced with pressure to improve operational efficiency, navigate market volatility, and meet evolving regulatory demands. In this environment, digital transformation has become essential for refinery and petrochemical operators to stay competitive.

Implementing digital solutions can present unique challenges due to the complexity of operations and a dependence on legacy systems. The hybrid approach is best suited to unravel these complexities by combining deep technical expertise with advanced data science.

Expert Solutions for Complex Operations

Lummus Digital (LD), a joint venture between TCG Digital and Lummus Technology, offers a hybrid solution that merges decades of process engineering experience with modern AI and data science. Tailored solutions delivered by the experience of 500 process engineers and 100 data scientists solve complex challenges while delivering measurable returns on investment (ROI).

LD’s hybrid model solutions include a customized digital roadmap that integrates seamlessly with existing systems and ensures digitalization delivers immediate value with real-time insights. The robust big data platform connects disparate data sources, cleanses information, and makes it accessible for predictive analytics and anomaly detection. And modular solutions allow companies to embark on a gradual digitalization journey, scaling the adoption based on operational needs.

Expert Problem-Solving

Each solution is developed in close partnership with technology and operations SMEs, ensuring solutions are grounded in real-world expertise. By blending human expertise with advanced data science, LD anticipates problems and creates predictive models that flag potential issues before they escalate, allowing operators to take preventive action.

LD’s approach doesn’t just solve today’s challenges—it also embeds industry expertise into its tools, making critical knowledge accessible to the next generation of engineers. Visualization-based systems offer an intuitive interface for real-time operations while serving as valuable training tools for workforce development.

Bridging the Knowledge Gap

As the downstream workforce undergoes a generational shift as many experienced engineers retire, companies face a growing need for effective knowledge transfer. Digital solutions bridge this gap by embedding essential operational expertise and ensuring continuity in operations as seasoned professionals exit the workforce.These solutions not only improve daily operations but also ensure the long-term development of the workforce.

Leveraging AI for Future Performance

Looking ahead, LD is embracing the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) to further enhance operational performance. The company’s use of Generative AI is creating an internal knowledge base focused on operational excellence, augmented by AI agents capable of complex calculations and predictive analytics. These AI-driven solutions help companies detect anomalies before they occur, offering detailed insights into how to prevent them.

The result is fewer unplanned shutdowns and reduced operational disruptions. AI tools also quantify the potential economic impact of anomalies, providing companies with the information they need to justify preventive measures and optimize operations.

LD’s solutions address a broad range of challenges across different departments and technologies. By combining core industry principles with cutting-edge technology, operators can access a comprehensive framework for enhancing everything from process control to energy efficiency.

This multidisciplinary approach allows LD’s solutions to have a widespread impact, improving overall plant efficiency and helping companies stay competitive in an evolving market.