In part 2 of our Nuclear Energy Series, our panel delves into the critical role of supply chain management, data orchestration, and digital twins in shaping the future of nuclear power. The conversation highlights how these innovations are not only enhancing the safety and
reliability of nuclear operations but also unlocking new possibilities for
optimization and predictive maintenance.
Key highlights of the discussion include:
Digitalization and data orchestration are crucial to enable a "nuclear renaissance"
Digital twins and advanced analytics (AI, ML, physics-informed models) enable:
Simulation of "what-if" scenarios to predict and prevent failures
Informed, real-time predictions of asset degradation and maintenance needs
New nuclear reactor designs are prioritizing maintainability and serviceability to address historical challenges
Reduced order models and edge computing are empowering near real-time simulation and decision-making for operators
Collaboration between nuclear operators, regulators, and technology providers is crucial to accelerate the adoption of these transformative digital capabilities
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17:29
From the Classroom to the Field: Empowering the Next Generation of Engineers
In this episode, Dora Smith and John Nixon of Siemens discuss the critical trends and challenges in academia and workforce development, particularly in the energy, chemicals, and infrastructure sectors.
Our guests highlight several key challenges facing these industries:
The rapid growth of digital technologies like AI, machine learning, and the industrial metaverse is creating a major skills gap. Workers need to develop “digital fluency” to leverage these new tools effectively.
There is a significant labor shortage, with high demand for skilled workers in fields like welding, pipefitting, and data center operations to support growing energy needs.
Traditionally, academia has struggled to keep curricula at pace with industry needs. However, this is starting to change, with 60% of universities now looking to supplement degrees with industry-created micro-credentials.
Dora and John also explain how micro-credentials can play a vital role in bridging this skills gap. These bite-sized, industry-recognized certifications allow for more agile, targeted upskilling than traditional 4-year degrees. Micro-credentials can be integrated into degree programs, creating clear pathways for students.
We also learn how Siemens is developing internal micro-credential programs to upskill their own workforce. This helps ensure workers have the necessary digital skills and to leverage emerging technologies in the field.
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20:01
The Resurgence of Nuclear Energy in the Digital Age
In this episode, our panel of experts shed light on exciting developments and challenges within nuclear energy. Nuclear energy is increasingly recognized as vital for ensuring energy security and stability. The growing energy demand from Artificial Intelligence (AI) and data centers drives the need to accelerate nuclear plant design and deployment. Our guests highlight the complexities behind large-scale nuclear projects and the imperative to bring advanced reactor technologies to the grid.
Featured Guest – Emilio Baglietto, Associate Department Head and Professor of Nuclear Science and Engineering at MIT.
AI and the growth of data centers are reshaping the energy sector. By 2030-2035, data centers are projected to consume 9% of US energy. This surge in demand suggests a reevaluation of how nuclear facilities are designed and constructed. Traditionally, facility construction spans 7-10 years, a timeline that must be accelerated to meet the rapid pace of innovation.
What You’ll Learn in this Episode:
AI and data centers – the new drivers of nuclear demand
Challenges with past nuclear projects
Is a nuclear renaissance ahead?
Digitalization – the engine to redesign nuclear projects, manage lifecycles, and foster better collaboration with the supply chain
Use of technology to meet safety requirements, ensure timely project completion and reduce rework
The need for nuclear facilities to accelerate their design processes to meet capacity demands
Connect with Emilio Baglietto:
LinkedIn
Connect with John Nixon:
LinkedIn
Connect with Greg Elliot:
LinkedIn
Connect with Matt McCullum:
LinkedIn
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13:21
Siemens and TeamViewer's Augmented Future
Businesses, especially those with frontline workers, can reap substantial benefits from integrating augmented reality into their daily operations. This integration leads to remarkable gains in efficiency, enhanced productivity, and greater safety for workers.
Today, Brendan Conley is joined by Alfredo Patron, Jason Hawker from TeamViewer, and John Nixon from Siemens Digital Industries Software. They discuss the partnership between Siemens and TeamViewer, focusing on how digital transformation and augmented reality solutions impact industries globally, and how their partnership drives advancements in this field.
In this episode, you will gain valuable insights into the practicality and immediacy of these technologies and their successful adoption in critical operations worldwide, enabling significant improvements in various industry sectors.
What You’ll Learn in this Episode:
Siemens and TeamViewer partnership and the evolution of augmented reality in various industries globally, including aerospace, and manufacturing (01:46)
Leveraging AR and digital twins for efficient maintenance and inspections (4:03)
The benefits of digital backbone and augmented reality solutions: greater efficiency, reduced downtime, and quick ROI (07:26)
Leveraging technology for frontline workers (12:27)
Connect with Alfredo Patron:
LinkedIn
Connect with John Nixon:
LinkedIn
Connect with Brendan Conley:
LinkedIn
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17:38
The SAP and Siemens Collaboration Pioneering Digital Transformation
The transformational journey in the energy sector, particularly technologies like the cloud, Internet of Things (IoT), and analytics, is changing the landscape causing an urgent need for digital transformation and efficiency in the energy sector. Failure to adapt and evolve could significantly delay the global transition to cleaner energy solutions, a delay the world cannot afford.
Today, Brendan Conley is joined by Steve Boerman from SAP and John Nixon from Siemens. They will share a comprehensive look at how the blend of engineering and digital technologies sets the stage for a more efficient and adaptive future in the energy sector.
In this episode, you will learn more about the urgent need for digital transformation and efficiency in the energy sector. You will also hear about the importance of learning from other industries like automotive manufacturing, where digital twin technologies and integrated data management have led to quicker and more efficient project deliveries. In addition, you will get an insight into the partnership between SAP and Siemens and its potential to be a game-changer in the energy sector.
What You’ll Learn in this Episode:
Current challenges and energy industry trends (1:15)
Industrial and automotive manufacturing mindset. (4:41)
Siemens and SAP partnership, offering a more integrated and seamless approach to managing the lifecycle of energy projects (8:02)
Digital Thread Concept (12:44)
Case studies showcasing the digital thread in action (15:09)
Connect with John Nixon:
LinkedIn
Connect with Steve Boerman:
LinkedIn
Connect with Brendan Conley:
LinkedIn
Ireland