In 2024, Parkinson-Spencer Refractories was successful in its application for a funded KTP (knowledge transfer partnership). This bid was in collaboration with Aberystwyth University.

The scope of the project is to investigate the development of a computational platform, using machine learning and artificial intelligence technologies, in order to optimize the loading of refractories onto our kilns.

Kiln utilisation figures can be as low as around 9%; meaning that only 9% of the available volume of the kiln is filled with refractory product. It is thought that there is huge scope for improvement and even an increase to 10-15% kiln volume utilisation would have an enormous impact on our production capacity and the CO2 content of our refractories.

In preparation for the launch of this project, we have recently completed the recruitment process for the KTP Associate to lead this project. They will be starting in April 2025, when we will introduce him. The KTP Associate will be based primarily at PSR, whilst also spending some time in Aberystwyth.

PSR Managing Director, Simon Parkinson, said:

This is an exciting and potentially transformative project because it could lead to us being able to produce refractories in a more energy efficient manner, which will support our drive towards becoming a more sustainable business.