2025 - AVEVA World - San Francisco - Process Industries (Chemicals, MMM, Pulp/Paper)
Methanex: Unlocking AI’s Potential with PI System Data & CONNECT: A Simplified, Scalable Approach
We use AVEVA PI System as our standard historian, capturing vast amounts of operational data across six countries to drive plant efficiency. Our goal is to integrate this data with foundational AI models hosted on Azure AI and models developed using Python; and generate executive reports via Power BI. The main challenge lies in securely extracting AVEVA PI System data from DMZs, made more complex by our global footprint. Existing solutions like PI Integrator and PI Web API require significant infrastructure, deep technical knowledge and lack a central data-sharing hub, making them non-scalable solutions. CONNECT addresses these issues by providing a lightweight, web-services-based platform for secure data transfer. This streamlined approach reduces integration costs and complexity, enabling rapid deployment of AI models and delivering real-time insights to leadership. As a result, we have accelerated data-driven decision-making and realized tangible benefits in plant performance.
Industry
Chemicals
Company
Methanex
Speaker
Julio Figueroa
Julio Figueroa is an innovative IT professional and IT Business Relationship Manager at Methanex, driving digital transformation and AI adoption. With a Master’s in Information Management, he specializes in leveraging AI for knowledge management, optimizing data-driven decision-making. Passionate about the intersection of AI and business strategy, he focuses on scalable solutions that enhance efficiency and innovation. Julio is eager to collaborate with like-minded professionals to drive impactful AI-driven change.
Company
Methanex
Speaker
Enrico Branca
Franco Branca is a Senior Process and Project engineer at Methanex, with over 16 years of expertise in hydrocarbon and chemical processing, capital project management, process optimization, and analytics. Trained as a Chemical Engineer, he excels in transforming complex challenges into innovative, efficient solutions that drive industry advancement. Passionate about bridging the gap between manufacturing and IT, Franco leverages technology to integrate robust systems with operational processes, enhancing performance and sustainability.
Session Code
SESS-239
