Speira and SMS Group join forces to revolutionise aluminium scrap handling with AI-powered optimisation

Speira's Recycling Services and SMS group have formed a strategic partnership to enhance operational standards through advanced digitalisation technologies for scrap handling at Speira's sites in Töging am Inn, Grevenbroich, and Deizisau.

Metallics Optimizer – AI-driven charge-mix optimisation solution

As part of the agreement, SMS group will implement its "Metallics Optimizer," an AI-driven charge-mix optimisation solution to improve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and optimise the scrap mix. The rollout of the Metallics Optimiser will integrate seamlessly with aluminium melting and holding furnaces and those used for magnesium production.

The implementation of the Metallics Optimiser will extend to additional Speira-specific applications, focusing on business processes while enabling step-by-step charging and precise sequencing of heats. By considering factors such as scrap availability, process costs, and purchasing expenses for various scrap types, the Metallics Optimizer will enhance existing alloy recipes.

"With SMS group, we have the right partner for our business in the sensitive aluminium recycling industry. They convinced us with a digital solution that seamlessly integrates third-party equipment and automation in a brown field environment with specific challenges and additionally is fully customised to meet the needs of our business processes," says Marco Gehlen, Head of Operations & Technology at SRS.

How will the Metallics Optimizer work

Additionally, it will support Speira's Recycling Services by providing optimised recipe suggestions and facilitating comparisons between different charge-mix scenarios. Optimised recipes are crucial for boosting cost competitiveness, and by maximising the efficient use of scrap, the Metallics Optimizer will help reduce energy consumption and minimise raw material losses during the melting process.

The Metallics Optimizer seamlessly integrates into Speira's existing IT landscape, accommodating multiple third-party equipment and automation systems. This integration enhances charge-mix calculations by enriching relevant data when needed and enables the implementation of additional planning-related functions.

Aligns with both production and business process

Tailored to Speira Recycling Services' operations across various European plants, the Metallics Optimizer is fully customisable to align with both production and business process requirements. It offers key functionalities such as reusing in-house circular materials and post-consumer recycling materials while ensuring compliance with environmental and legal standards.

"This strategic partnership is one of the major digitalisation projects underway in the aluminium recycling industry and marks a significant milestone in bringing together the expertise of Speira Recycling Services and SMS group to deliver enhanced quality, efficiency, and customisation capabilities. This project will be a contribution to SMS group's value of #turningmetalsgreen by supporting the circular economy, recycling, energy efficiency, and CO2 reduction, and reflects our commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancement in the aluminium industry," says Caroline Chatard, Vice President, Solutions-Technologies, SXT.

As a web-based solution, the Metallics Optimizer provides a flexible and learning-driven digital platform for scrap handling, allowing remote operation and control. This fosters seamless integration and data exchange across all Speira locations. The project is backed by a long-term software and maintenance contract, ensuring continued operation, ongoing updates, and alignment with the latest technological advancements.