Digital twin for operating an MDF board production plant

Abstract

A digital twin for process operation is defined as a virtual representation of a physical system, process or facility that, working in parallel to the process and updated in real time, has an architecture and functionalities that make it a useful tool for improving many aspects of process operation, from basic decisions to optimization. The digital twin uses historical and real-time data, along with advanced modeling, simulation and analysis, to replicate the behavior and performance of its physical counterpart. This paper proposes the development of a digital twin of an MDF (medium-density fiberboard) plant operation, addressing the challenges posed by the limited availability of measurements. This paper presents the development of models and interface essential for the use of a digital twin. The results highlight the potential of the digital twin to improve operational efficiency, safety and decision making in the process industry.