Industrial Talk Media

Scott MacKenzie hosts a podcast celebrating industry professionals and their innovations. In this episode, he discusses the application of digital twins to steam networks with Tania Schulze from Gradyent.ai. Tania explains that digital twins are digital representations of physical assets, enabling real-time monitoring, optimization, and predictive maintenance. She highlights the benefits of using physics-based models combined with machine learning to create accurate digital twins for steam networks. Tania emphasizes the importance of data quality and the challenges of implementing digital twins in existing plants. She also discusses the potential for significant energy savings and improved safety through digital twin technology.

Action Items
[ ] Reach out to Tania Schulze on LinkedIn or through the Gradyent website (Gradyent.ai) to discuss the digital twin solution for steam networks further.
[ ] Explore the potential benefits of implementing a digital twin for the steam network in your organization, such as improved efficiency, safety, and optimization.

Tania Schulze's Background and Expertise
Tania shares her background, including her experience in the oil and gas, engineering, and energy sectors.
She discusses her roles in strategic consulting, startup consulting, and sales positions related to technical fields.
Tania highlights her work with a predictive maintenance startup and her current role at Gradyent, focusing on digital twins for heating networks.
Scott praises Tania's extensive experience and the evolution of technology in the industry.
Challenges and Opportunities in Digital Twin Applications
Tania discusses the challenges of implementing digital twin applications in existing plants and the importance of practical solutions.
She explains the need for a data strategy and the importance of data quality and validation.
Tania shares an example of a client facing practical issues with sensor installation and the importance of feasibility on-site.
Scott and Tania discuss the benefits of having trusted professionals to guide the implementation of digital twin solutions.
Understanding Digital Twin and Its Benefits
Tania explains the concept of digital twin, defining it as a digital representation of a physical asset.
She describes the different functions of digital twins, including monitoring, optimization, and predictive maintenance.
Tania emphasizes the importance of real-time data in digital twin applications and the benefits of running simulations in the digital world.
Scott and Tania discuss the efficiency and validation of digital twin scenarios compared to physical changes.
Application of Digital Twin to Steam Networks
Tania describes the hybrid modeling approach used by Gradyent, combining physics-based models with machine learning and AR algorithms.
She explains the process of modeling steam networks, including the production, distribution, and end-users.
Tania highlights the challenges of closing the steam balance in industrial sites and the importance of sensor data.
Scott and Tanya discuss the benefits of digital twin in optimizing steam production and reducing costs.
Implementation and Optimization of Digital Twin in Steam Networks
Tania explains the incremental approach to implementing digital twin in steam networks, focusing on optimization and decarbonization.
She describes the process of simulating future scenarios and testing new operating parameters.
Tania shares an example of a client simulating the impact of a pipeline change on steam network efficiency.
Scott and Tania discuss the importance of safety and the benefits of proactive optimization in steam networks.
Data Strategy and Validation in Digital Twin Applications
Tania emphasizes the importance of a data strategy and the need for high-quality data for digital twin applications.
She describes the process of data cleaning, validation, and harmonization in building digital twins.
Tania shares examples of validating data and identifying issues, such as incorrect flow meters, through digital twin models.
Scott and Tania discuss the foundational role of data in digital twin applications and the importance of accurate data.
Overcoming Challenges and Gaining Trust in Digital Twin Solutions
Tania identifies the challenges of gaining trust in digital twin solutions and the importance of demonstrating their benefits.
She discusses the pushbacks related to changing running systems and the need for live optimization.
Tania highlights the limited live optimization options in the market and the importance of constant calibration.
Scott and Tania discuss the potential of digital twin solutions to provide significant benefits in industrial settings.

TANIA SCHULZE'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tania-schulze/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/gradyent/
Company Website: https://www.gradyent.ai/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at PowerGen and talking to Bert Warner, Director of Commercial BD with Propane Education & Research Council about "abundant fuel for an expanding energy market".

Scott MacKenzie interviews Bert Warner, Director of Commercial Business Development at the Propane Education and Research Council (PERC), at the Power Gen event in Dallas, Texas. Bert discusses the abundance of propane in the U.S., with 40 billion gallons extracted annually, of which only 10 billion are used domestically. He emphasizes propane's green energy credentials, resiliency, and cost-effectiveness compared to natural gas and electricity. Bert highlights the importance of responsible energy diversification and the need for greater public education on energy sources. He encourages listeners to visit propane.com for more information.

Action Items
[ ] Provide more information about propane and its benefits to the public
[ ] Connect with Bert Warner on LinkedIn to discuss propane further
Outline
Introduction and Welcome
Scott MacKenzie introduces the Industrial Talk Podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry innovations and trends.
Scott highlights the importance of the PowerGen event in Dallas, Texas, and its significance for the power and fuel industries.
Scott introduces Bert Warner, Director of Commercial Business Development for the Propane Education and Research Council (PERC).
Bert provides a brief background on his role and the council's mission to promote propane use in commercial sectors, particularly in power generation.
Current Energy Crisis and Propane's Role
Bert discusses the ongoing energy crisis, emphasizing the growing gap between energy demand and supply.
Scott and Bert agree on the need for a diverse energy mix, including natural gas, hydrogen, and propane.
Bert stresses the importance of keeping propane in the energy conversation due to its potential to address the current crisis.
Scott and Bert discuss the societal tendency to react to crises rather than being proactive in energy solutions.
Propane's Abundance and Green Energy Aspects
Bert shares statistics on propane extraction and usage in the US, highlighting its abundance.
Bert explains that the US uses only a small fraction of the propane extracted, with a significant amount exported.
Bert emphasizes propane's green energy credentials compared to the national average electric grid.
Bert discusses the resiliency of propane, particularly in providing energy to remote or growing areas where traditional infrastructure is costly to extend.
Propane's Flexibility and Market Competitiveness
Bert explains the flexibility of propane in terms of delivery and usage, making it an attractive option for various sectors.
Bert compares propane to diesel, highlighting its environmental friendliness and lower maintenance requirements.
Scott and Bert discuss the growing conversation around decarbonization and the role of propane in this context.
Bert emphasizes the need for responsible energy diversification to meet high energy demands without compromising on environmental impact.
Retrofitting and Fuel Switching
Scott inquires about the ease of retrofitting systems to use propane instead of diesel or natural gas.
Bert explains that retrofitting involves bringing in new tanks and piping, but the process is not overly complex.
Bert clarifies that it is not necessarily fuel switching but rather building a new system for grid independence.
Bert highlights the competitive pricing of propane in many markets, making it a cost-effective option compared to electricity.
Economic Considerations and Grid Independence
Bert shares his personal experience with high electric rates in Indiana and the cost-effectiveness of propane.
Bert discusses the benefits of controlling one's energy rate and budget with propane compared to utility rates.
Bert mentions a recent email from his utility about grid improvements and the associated cost increase.
Scott and Bert agree on the importance of considering economic factors in energy decisions.
Future Prospects and Education
Bert expresses excitement about greater education on energy sources and their origins.
Bert highlights the lack of understanding among the public about where their energy comes from.
Bert believes that increased education will lead to more responsible energy decisions.
Scott and Bert discuss the role of PERC in promoting propane education and its importance in the energy conversation.

BERT WARNER'S CONTACT INFORMATION:
Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bert-warner-7a08a9134/
Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/propane-education-research-council/
Company Website: https://propane.com/

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Scott MacKenzie hosts Nick Haase, co-founder of MaintainX, to discuss their mobile-first, frontline-friendly maintenance management software. MaintainX addresses the inefficiencies of traditional desktop-based CMMS systems by offering a mobile platform that streamlines workflows, reduces downtime, and integrates AI for predictive maintenance. Haas highlights the importance of capturing and digitizing data for AI tools to function effectively. He emphasizes the need for a solid data foundation and gradual AI integration. Maintain X aims to enhance efficiency, safety, and the onboarding of new workforce generations, leveraging IoT and AI to provide real-time insights and automate maintenance tasks.

Action Items
[ ] Connect with Nick Haase on LinkedIn or Twitter to discuss MaintainX further.
[ ] Visit the MaintainX website at getmaintainx.com to learn more about the platform.
Outline
Introduction and Welcome
Scott MacKenzie introduces the podcast, emphasizing its focus on industry innovations and trends.
Scott welcomes listeners and highlights the importance of industrial professionals in changing lives and the world.
Scott expresses gratitude to listeners for their support and introduces the guest, Nick Haase, co-founder of MaintainX.
Scott mentions Nick's previous appearances on the show and his active participation in industry events.
Promotion of Podcasting and Industrial Talk
Scott discusses the benefits of having a podcast for industry professionals, emphasizing its role in opening doors and creating opportunities.
Scott shares his personal experience with podcasting and how it helped his maintenance company succeed.
Scott encourages listeners to consider starting a podcast and offers to help them get started with Industrial Talk.
Scott highlights the importance of attention over marketing and how a podcast can leverage content to bring about opportunities.
Introduction of Nick Haas and MaintainX
Nick Haas joins the conversation, reflecting on his previous appearance on the show and the changes in the industry since then.
Scott and Nick discuss the evolution of MaintainX, a mobile-first frontline maintenance management software.
Nick explains the gap in the market for mobile-friendly CMMS systems and how MaintainX addresses this need.
Nick describes the initial challenges and the importance of capturing data digitally for AI integration.
MaintainX Workflow and Benefits
Nick outlines the basic workflow of MaintainX, starting with technicians receiving alerts and accessing contextual information on their devices.
Nick emphasizes the efficiency gains from having work instructions and parts lists readily available on the technician's tablet.
Nick explains how MaintainX helps save time by reducing the need for technicians to go back and forth to supply rooms.
Nick highlights the potential for predictive maintenance and AI integration to further enhance the platform's capabilities.
AI Integration and Predictive Maintenance
Nick discusses the importance of having a solid data foundation for AI tools to be effective.
MaintainX offers an AI procedure generator to help build workflows and save time.
Nick explains how MaintainX can use AI to generate work orders based on sensor data and predictive alerts.
Nick emphasizes the importance of user-friendly interfaces and the goal of making technology a co-pilot for users.
Challenges and Future of AI in Maintenance
Nick acknowledges the challenges of change management and the skepticism towards new technologies.
Nick stresses the importance of building a data foundation to support AI initiatives.
Nick shares MaintainX's approach to helping clients start with basic workflows and gradually integrate AI.
Nick highlights the potential for AI to drive significant improvements in efficiency and competitiveness.
Conclusion and Contact Information
Scott and Nick discuss the importance of finding quality partners to help with AI implementation.
Nick emphasizes the need for realistic expectations and a gradual approach to AI integration.
Nick provides contact information for listeners interested in learning more about MaintainX.
Scott wraps up the conversation, encouraging listeners to connect with Nick and explore the benefits of MaintainX.

If interested in being on the Industrial Talk show, simply contact us and let's have a quick conversation.

Finally, get your exclusive free access to the Industrial Academy and a series on “Why You Need To Podcast” for Greater Success in 2025. All links designed for keeping you current in this rapidly changing Industrial Market. Learn! Grow! Enjoy!

NICK HAASE'S CONTACT INFORMATION:

Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickhaase/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/getmaintainx/

Company Website: https://www.getmaintainx.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at Accruent Insights and talking to Meelad Nikpourian, Vice President, Commercial Software and Strategy at Accruent about "Innovative suite of solution focused on success".

Scott MacKenzie and Meelad discuss the Accruent Insights conference in San Antonio, highlighting Accruent's global customer base and recent acquisitions, including a full SaaS EDMS product from Australia. Meelad, VP of Commercial Operations, explains Accruent's strategy to simplify the buying process and integrate solutions, emphasizing the importance of customer insights. They discuss the integration of Accruent's EDMS with Service Channel, enhancing retail maintenance and predicting asset degradation. Meelad notes the significant financial impact of food spoilage and the potential for insurance integration. Looking ahead, Meelad sees Accruent becoming more global and innovative, with a focus on customer-driven solutions.

Action Items
[ ] Explore the potential insurance benefits for customers by integrating Accruent's asset monitoring data.
[ ] Follow up on expanding Accruent's global reach and customer use cases across different markets.
[ ] Connect with Melan on LinkedIn to discuss further opportunities.
Outline
Accruent Insights Conference Overview
Scott MacKenzie introduces the podcast and highlights the importance of celebrating industry professionals.
Scott mentions the current event at Accruent Insights in San Antonio, Texas, emphasizing the problem-solving atmosphere.
Scott and Meelad discuss the success of the conference and the importance of customer insights in driving solutions.
Meelad mentions the new leadership under Richard Lurick and the global reach of Accruent's customer base.
Introduction of Speaker 2 and Role
Meelad introduces himself as the Vice President of Commercial Operations and Strategy at Accruent.
He explains his role in working closely with global go-to-market teams, marketing, sales, and product leaders.
Meelad emphasizes the importance of providing a seamless experience for both prospects and customers throughout the buying cycle.
He describes the conversion process from lead capture to nurturing and handing over to account executives.
Challenges in the Buying Process
Scott and Meelad discuss the increasing complexity of the buying process with more stakeholders involved.
Meelad highlights Accruent's efforts to reduce complexity by making the buying process easier and integrating solutions.
They talk about the importance of providing combined packages that add more value to customers.
Meelad clarifies that Accruent still caters to single-point solutions and the importance of integrations with external products.
Integration and Customization of Solutions
Meelad explains the integration of Accruent's solutions with leading CMS and EDMS products.
He emphasizes the importance of providing a holistic solution for customers, regardless of their portfolio.
Scott and Meelad discuss the potential for adding value by integrating existing products with new solutions.
Meelad mentions the bi-directional integration with Service Channel, a leading CMS for the retail space.
Retail Use Case and AI Capabilities
Meelad provides a detailed use case for a grocery store using Accruent's solutions to monitor and predict asset degradation.
He explains how the system uses AI to analyze data and create work orders automatically.
The system can also provide real-time data to technicians on-site, ensuring effective repairs.
Scott and Meelad discuss the importance of historical data in setting control points and predicting work orders.
Global Growth and Future Prospects
Meelad talks about Accruent's global expansion and the diverse customer use cases across different regions.
He highlights the company's focus on innovation and growth in various markets.
Scott expresses his enthusiasm for the energy and excitement at the event and the potential for career opportunities.
Meelad provides his contact information for further discussions and collaboration opportunities.
Closing Remarks and Contact Information
Scott wraps up the conversation, emphasizing the importance of education, collaboration, and innovation in the industry.
He encourages listeners to reach out to Meelad and other industry professionals for further discussions.
Scott reiterates the mission of the Industrial Talk Podcast to support and celebrate industry professionals.
The podcast concludes with a call to action for listeners to stay tuned for future conversations.

Finally, get your exclusive free access to the Industrial Academy and a series on “Why You Need To Podcast” for Greater Success in 2023. All links designed for keeping you current in this rapidly changing Industrial Market. Learn! Grow! Enjoy!

BRIAN BRZINSKI'S CONTACT INFORMATION:

Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianbrzinski/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/amssconsulting/

Company Website: https://amssconsulting.com/

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Industrial Talk is onsite at FABTECH and talking to Ed Marsh, Founder of Ed Marsh Consulting about "Real Tactical Solutions for Manufacturing Success".

If interested in being on the Industrial Talk show, simply contact us and let's have a quick conversation.

Finally, get your exclusive free access to the Industrial Academy and a series on “Why You Need To Podcast” for Greater Success in 2023. All links designed for keeping you current in this rapidly changing Industrial Market. Learn! Grow! Enjoy!

ED MARSH'S CONTACT INFORMATION:

Personal LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edwardbmarsh/

Company LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ed-marsh-consulting/

Company Website: https://www.edmarshconsulting.com/

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