Scientists from South Ural State University (SUSU) have for the first time developed a concept for the use of autonomous mobile robots in refractory industry enterprises, TASS was informed by the university's press service. Researchers propose replacing manual transportation of heavy loads – bricks and bulk materials – with robotic logistics, which should solve key industry problems: high costs, injuries, and losses from defects.
Specialists compared two types of systems: automated guided vehicles with fixed routes and autonomous mobile robots capable of independently charting a path and bypassing obstacles. In the conditions of refractory production – with high dustiness, temperature fluctuations, and the need to transport heavy loads – AMRs proved to be preferable. To change the route, robots only need to update the digital map of the premises, while AGVs require physical restructuring of the infrastructure.
The researchers identified technical requirements for the machines: a load capacity of up to 1.5 tons, dust protection not lower than IP54, positioning accuracy up to 10 mm, and a range of at least eight hours. Based on these parameters, a mathematical model was built to calculate the optimal number of robots in the area. For transporting pallets of bricks from the pressing shop to the drying chambers, a fleet of six machines will be required.
The basic payback period for the project is about nine years, but taking into account personnel release, reduced equipment downtime, and reduced defects, it can decrease to six to seven years. The concept involves phased implementation: first, a pilot project with two or three robots, then scaling and integration with the enterprise management system. In the near future, scientists plan to create materials for a "digital twin" of the refractory production of the "Magnezit" group.
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