Russia Deploys “Digital Eyes” to Monitor Aluminum Production
An AI-powered vision system at the Krasnoyarsk Aluminum Plant has made environmental safety responses eight times faster.
At one of Russia’s largest aluminum facilities, engineers from RUSAL have introduced an artificial intelligence system that monitors equipment in real time — spotting even the smallest irregularities before they become dangerous. The innovation marks a new milestone for sustainable, high-tech manufacturing in the global metals industry.
“Smart” cameras now watch the electrolyzers, the core units in aluminum production, checking for signs of leaks or emissions. A specially trained neural network analyzes the video feed continuously, recognizing early indicators of depressurization such as the appearance of smoke. When a potential issue is detected, the system immediately alerts plant operators to act.
From 40 Minutes to 5
The new system has cut response times from 40 minutes to just 5, reducing harmful emissions through the plant’s ventilation systems by 20%. By the end of 2025, the “digital eyes” will be installed in four more workshops, and by 2026 the project will cover all facilities using EcoSoderberg technology — a cleaner smelting process pioneered by RUSAL.
Engineers say the AI monitoring platform can be adapted for other industrial sites worldwide, setting a model for how intelligent systems can make heavy industry faster, safer, and greener.
