The temperate zone

Novo Nordisk is one of the world’s largest producers of insulin.

In Novo’s production facilities in Kalundborg, Denmark, everyone on staff knows the current production temperature.

Rigid production demands
Insulin production places rigid demands on the production environment: Sterile surroundings, extremely precise quantities, and not least, precision in temperature regulation.

The insulin production process requires strict attention to production temperature; if the temperature exceeds 24 degrees Celsius, the production process has to be adjusted accordingly.

Monitoring the temperature is generally the foreman’s responsibility. A foreman has, however, other things to do than watch the thermometer, so waste was unavoidable. Improperly produced insulin must be destroyed.

Today, Instrumeter’s measuring equipment and displays have taken over the job. All persons on staff are aware of the temperature, measured in various key points. An alarm sounds, if the temperature climbs toward 24 degrees. Each display is an intelligent unit, which can relay measurement data to various in-house recievers, as well as storing an independent log of its “own” measurements. These are used to monitor long-term temperature variations.

Positive impact
The result, aside from the obvious economical gain, is an improvement in personnel motivation and satisfaction. With less batches destroyed, there is less friction between work team members. No one enjoys destroying the results of their work. Workers have increased competency – thanks to accessible data.