Processing's Weekly Mixer: AI & ML in plant operations, Automation Fair coverage and more
Welcome to the latest installment of Processing's Weekly Mixer, where we highlight recent content from EndeavorB2B brands relevant to the process industries. This week's edition includes contributions from Chemical Processing and CONTROL, along with the latest happenings on Processing, P.I. Process Instrumentation and Water Technology.
— Jesse Osborne, Chief Editor
The impact of AI and ML on plant operations and maintenance
Chemical Processing Editor-at-Large Seán Ottewell recently authored an article that examines how process plant maintenance and operations are being transformed by artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML).
Ottewell writes: "AI and machine learning are emerging as essential tools rather than experimental technologies. The path forward isn't about replacing physics-based models with data-driven approaches, but strategically combining both to create more efficient, operation-ready solutions. The question is no longer whether to adopt AI, but how quickly organizations can integrate these tools into their existing workflows."
Sticking with CP, the latest episode of Process Safety With Trish & Traci looks back at the 2005 Buncefield tank farm explosion, which occurred when a gasoline storage tank overfilled after both its level gauge and independent high-level switch failed. Gasoline vapor formed a massive cloud that ignited, causing 43 injuries.
The incident revealed critical gaps in safety control verification, testing procedures, and maintenance regimes. Twenty years later, the disaster emphasizes the importance of recognizing weak signals, maintaining bund integrity, and ensuring operators actively monitor tank filling operations rather than relying solely on automated systems.
Listen to the full episode here.
CONTROL coverage of Automation Fair
Editors from multiple EndeavorB2B brands attended this week’s Automation Fair 2025 in Chicago and are providing daily coverage of the event for CONTROL. Here's a look at some of the coverage from the event:
- Everything automated will one day incorporate AI: Rockwell Automation’s vice president for automation and autonomy says every stage of manufacturing has begun to incorporate learning functions, and the trend is accelerating.
- Rockwell Automation looks within to transform manufacturing: Rockwell Automation’s Bob Buttermore shared the timeline of transformative technology implementations in the company’s own facilities that will serve as pilot projects that can be scaled for customers.
- Charting the path to industrial autonomy: Software-defined automation, together with artificial intelligence and robotics provide the foundation for the next generation of industrial operations, featuring systems that adapt, learn and adjust.
- Software, robotics and AI multiply automation’s impact: Rockwell Automation is co-innovating with customers to make AI real, and incorporate functions that will be useful for them.
For full coverage of the event from CONTROL, click here.
Podcast
Navigating new PFAS regulations: Practical strategies for packaging and industrial facilities
Ship & Shore Environmental CEO Anoosheh Oskouian explains how new PFAS regulations are reshaping the packaging sector and why high-temperature oxidation is becoming essential for compliance.
Articles
From P.I. Process Instrumentation:
How temperature, pressure and viscosity affect flow measurement
From Water Technology:
Closing the loop: High-recovery RO and ZLD for a sustainable water future
News
PMMI unveils new operator training and data management standardization guidance
Eriez expands North American Quick Ship to cut lead times for processors
Rockwell Automation plans major Wisconsin manufacturing site to expand U.S. production
ControlTech Automation unveils new identity at Rockwell Automation Fair
New Products
Unibloc Hygienic Technologies launches CleanPlus hygienic pumps
Coming Monday — Breakthrough Products Awards winners
Processing will announce its 2025 Breakthrough Products Awards winners on Monday.
Processing's annual Breakthrough Products Awards honor 10 innovative technology solutions that made significant contributions to improvements in the process industries within the past year.
Be sure to check out www.processingmagazine.com on Monday to find out about this year's winners.