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TerraKE™ Implementation for Plant Automation

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Hubbard Feeds Logo
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Services Performed

The Situation

Hubbard Feeds, a leading name in feed manufacturing, specializes in creating high-quality livestock feed for a variety of animals. With operations expanding and an increasing demand for higher efficiency and reliability, Hubbard Feeds faced challenges with their existing automation system. Their previous setup was outdated, manual, and lacked flexibility required to need modern production demands, leading to inefficiencies and lost productivity. To address these issues, Hubbard Feeds partnered with Knobelsdorff to implement a TerraKE MES Automation System designed to optimize and transform their facilities operations.

The Solution

Knobelsdorff provided a comprehensive solution for integrating the TerraKE MES Automation System, tailoring it to the specific needs of Hubbard Feeds' facility. The scope of the project included:

Electrical Upgrades

  • Installed a new 24’x24’ electrical room, consolidating outdated MCC rooms into one centralized location for improved system management.
  • Engineered and installed new service entrance switchgear and relocated the utility interconnect.
  • Transferred and repiped all wiring, conduits, and terminations to the new MCC room.

Hazmon Integration

Installed a hazard monitoring system to improve safety and meet NFPA 61 compliance. The system provided real-time monitoring of bucket elevators, including belt alignment, bearing conditions, and potential fire risks, significantly reducing downtime and risk of catastrophic failures.

Automation and Control Systems

  • Implemented TerraKE MES, transitioning the plant from manual to fully automated operations.
  • Upgraded old distributor controllers and integrated features like job reporting, recipe management, bin control, and ERP connectivity.
  • Designed and installed PLC and SCADA systems for advanced control and data analysis.

Project Design and Management

  • Provided a detailed engineering design package using Building Information Modeling (BIM) for accurate planning and visualization.
  • Ensured seamless scheduling and project management through Procore software, maintaining high-quality standards while minimizing operational disruption.

Startup and Training

  • Conducted a nine-day plant shutdown to transition all systems to the new infrastructure.
  • Delivered comprehensive training to Hubbard Feeds’ team, ensuring smooth adoption of the TerraKE system.
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Unlock the Full Potential of Your Facility

Hubbard Feeds transformed their operations with TerraKE, now it's your turn. No matter your goals, TerraKE’s fully customizable system provides the automation and insights needed to take your facility to the next level. Ready to see if in action?

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The Results

Hubbard Feeds experienced a transformative impact from the TerraKE system upgrade and implementation. Highlights include:

Increased ROI

  • MCC Room and Phase 1: 32.8% ROI with 3.3-year payback.
  • Phase 2: 18.5% ROI with 5.8-year payback.
  • Automation/TerraKE: 25.6% ROI with 3.2 year payback.

Enhanced Efficiency and Compliance

  • The Hazmon system ensured 100% compliance with safety standards.
  • Improved quality control and traceability across all production processes.

Operational Optimization

  • Fully automated system reduces manual labor requirements and errors.
  • Real-time data insights enable better decision-making and minimizes downtime.

Hubbard Feeds reported that the upgrade not only exceeded their expectations but also positioned the facility for long-term success. With TerraKE in place, the plant is better equipped to meet customer demands, maintain compliance, and drive profitability.

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