Daniel Neal

Daniel Neal

Consultant and Business Development Lead for Advanced Operations Solutions Linde Engineering Americas

Daniel Neal is Consultant and Business Development Lead for Advanced Operations Solutions for Linde Engineering Americas where he is responsible for architecting solutions to improve EBIT of the operating companies by implementing advanced automation solutions such as AI Plant Control and autonomous plant operation. He is based in Houston Texas. Daniel has been in the Oil and Gas process automation industry in various roles for more than 15 years. He started out as a systems integrator and then built on that experience transitioning into six sigma continuous improvement and operations consulting to reduce OPEX, increase automation, and transition manufacturing processes to Industry 4.0 smart manufacturing. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical engineering from University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Main Conference Day One - November 5

1:40 PM Autonomous Plant Operation to Reduce Operational Expenditure

Autonomous operations are no longer futuristic, they are essential for survival in today’s cost-sensitive industrial landscape. They offer a proven path to lower OPEX while increasing throughput, reliability, and safety.

Linde’s global standardized automation model, including global remote control centers managing hundreds of plants, have challenged conventional automation principles over the past 30+ years. This shift has unlocked new automation potential and delivered significant OPEX savings, giving Linde a competitive edge.

This presentation explores how advancements in computing power, AI/ ML technology, and modern instrumentation paved the way for autonomous plant operations to be what it is today for Linde. Routine tasks traditionally performed by human operators are now automated and standardized across all DCS platforms, accelerating project delivery and allowing personnel to focus on higher-value activities. Machine learning now augments Linde’s model, enabling autonomous modes for complex decisions traditionally made by DCS consoles operators.

By integrating advanced automation technologies, Linde’ transformation has optimized human capital, enhanced ROI, and achieved substantial OPEX improvements—all while maintaining strong cyber security and functional safety. This approach empowers businesses to fully realize the benefits to realize more from autonomous operations, driving profitability, throughput, reliability, and long-term competitiveness. 

Check out the incredible speaker line-up to see who will be joining Daniel.

Download The Latest Agenda