Hindustan Zinc Deploys AI System to Automate Chemical Dosing in Production

Hindustan Zinc Limited has launched an AI-powered automation system to optimize chemical dosing in its zinc production processes across three major smelting facilities. The technology, developed in partnership with startup Ripik.AI, uses machine learning algorithms to automate the dosing of consumables including zinc dust, sodium sulphate, lime, and cement.

The system operates at Hindustan Zinc's Chanderiya Smelting Complex in Chittorgarh, Dariba Smelting Complex in Rajsamand, and Zinc Smelter Debari in Udaipur. It integrates data from Laboratory Information Management Systems, Distributed Control Systems, and Programmable Logic Controllers to enable process control.

According to CEO Arun Misra, the automation reduces human dependency in production processes while providing real-time insights for material consumption optimization. The AI system has been trained on historical operational data to enable predictive process optimization.

The implementation is part of Hindustan Zinc's collaboration with over 40 technology startups on more than 60 projects. The company works with approximately 50 startups through Vedanta Spark, the parent company's corporate accelerator program that focuses on emerging technology solutions for business challenges.

Hindustan Zinc has established a digital collaboration center that analyzes data from all business units to support decision-making processes. The company has also deployed computer vision solutions and works with startups on industrial diagnostics technology for equipment monitoring.

The Vedanta Group subsidiary holds approximately 77% of India's primary zinc market share and ranks among the top five silver producers globally. The company received recognition as the world's most sustainable metals and mining company for the second consecutive year in the S&P Global Corporate Sustainability Assessment 2024.

Hindustan Zinc launched EcoZen, described as Asia's first low-carbon zinc brand produced using renewable energy, which reportedly has a carbon footprint 75% lower than conventional zinc. The company maintains water-positive status at 3.32 times and has committed to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

The AI implementation spans process optimization, metal recovery enhancement, asset reliability, productivity improvements, and sustainability initiatives. The technology deployment includes artificial intelligence, machine learning, computer vision, drone technology, Internet of Things, and augmented reality applications.