The manufacturing philosophy at Propel Industries focuses on providing innovative, technologically-sound and cost-effective solutions.
V. Senthilkumar Managing Director, Propel Industries What do you think are the latest ‘smart technology’ trends in the manufacturing sector, especially in the manufacturing of construction and mining equipment and what do you
– V. Senthilkumar
Managing Director, Propel Industries
What do you think are the latest ‘smart technology’ trends in the manufacturing sector, especially in the manufacturing of construction and mining equipment and what do you think is the impact of this on the manufacturing processes, enterprise value chain and supply chain?
Any technology that works for the benefit of the customer is most welcome. I think smart technology trends in the manufacturing sector is creating quite a buzz as it streamlines heavy equipment development and provides more in-demand user features. It is also driving change in all the stages of the products’ lifecycles. I think this will have a positive impact on the manufacturing processes, enterprise value chain and supply chain.
Can you elaborate on the manufacturing philosophy and production principles of your company?
The manufacturing philosophy at Propel Industries focuses on providing innovative, technologically-sound and cost-effective solutions to the crushing and screening industry. Our production principles aim to provide a comprehensive range of products with high reliability and performance. We have achieved 100% localisation and so, our spare parts are cost-effective. Our indigenously made parts ensure our products’ enhanced performance and versatile applications at optimal costs. Here, I proudly state that we are the first Indian company in this segment to get a CE (ConformitèEuropëenne) certification.
How do these principles help in ensuring zero defects, environment-friendliness and safety in your production processes and supply chain? Brief us on the on-going / on-the-pipeline initiatives to make your manufacturing more sustainable?
We have a carefully-designed system working towards zero defects. Our ‘Do it right the first time’ policy at the shop floor is helping us in this pursuit. We have implemented Behaviour based quality (BBQ) to promote a culture of quality across the organisation and also to look at it as a strategic business imperative. Our well-defined quality policy has improved efficiency, lessened product defects and reduced costs.
We have a supplier selection process which is in line with the international standard ISO 9001-2015 quality management system requirements. A quality assurance plan has been established and is followed for all critical and major parts. A certification process for all critical and major casting parts is done through non-destructive testing methods. We have in place a self-certified process implementation.
As regards safety, we leave no stone unturned. All the safety measures are adhered to at every stage of production and later on, as well.
Even when the pandemic hit the supply chain of manufacturers, we were not affected much because all our parts are indigenously-made.
At this juncture, I would like to share that 100% of the power used by Propel Industries is generated using renewable resources. We use both solar and wind power. Being energy self-sufficient has been our dream and we have achieved it. We have a sewage treatment plant and the recycled water is used for our gardens surrounding the factory. We are looking at other ways too to address carbon neutrality. We wish to do our bit to achieve the target of net zero by 2050, as announced by International Energy Agency (IEA).
To what extent has your company imbibed digital technologies on manufacturing & how have you been able to leverage the digital platforms / flexible and scalable technology in your manufacturing set up?
Propel Industries is known for incorporating latest technology to constantly upgrade our products, which in turn benefits our customers.
After the pandemic, we have turned to technological means for our operations as well. We understand that the market growth of crushers and screens is because of the incorporation of technology and its increased usage. Automation in the mining and construction industry is also a key factor in propelling the industry growth. Track plants operated with electric power rather than by hydraulic means is the latest trend. We have imbibed IoT, AI and automation in our processes.
What do you think are the major challenges in replacing the legacy system with newer and smarter technologies?
There is definitely a security issue in the usage of smarter technologies. If we don’t have a fool proof system in place, then proprietary information could be hacked. Security breach at any level could bring in distrust among stakeholders. The newer technologies also demand human resources who are skilled enough to handle the same. Finding the right person who has a mix of experience and knowledge about latest technological trend is a challenge. There are also other issues involving connectivity and finances.
This said, it is also imperative that newer and smarter technologies are embraced for the benefit of all, while also finding ways to overcome the challenges posed.
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