Russian Steel Plant Shifts Industrial Cranes to Remote Control

At Novolipetsk Steel, remote-controlled cranes are speeding up operations and keeping workers out of dangerous zones, as the company rolls out a new unmanned system across its workshops.

Novolipetsk Steel (NLMK) is introducing remote control systems for its industrial cranes. The technology, developed by Skolkovo-based startup Virsine Innovation, is already being used to operate grab cranes designed to lift and transport irregularly shaped loads such as large steel products. The digital solution accelerates workflows while eliminating the need for employees to be physically present in hazardous areas.

The plant first tested the unmanned crane system in 2023. Following successful trials, NLMK has begun scaling the technology to other workshops. By the end of this year, the company expects all cranes at the facility to operate entirely in unmanned mode.

NLMK is also deploying other digital tools for automation and monitoring, allowing the steelmaker to further modernize production and improve safety oversight.