Digital twins and AI slash drink development times
Beverage processing separator GEA GSX 260 with integrated Water Saving Unit: This skid is a compact, plug-and-play solution that saves almost all fresh water and can be quickly put into operation. Source: GEA
At the upcoming Hannover Messe (April 20–24), GEA and Siemens will showcase a joint vision for the future of beverage manufacturing, demonstrating how cloud technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and modular automation are transforming the industry.
Located at the Siemens booth (Hall 27, Booth A48), the exhibit features a fully digital production journey that maps the entire process from raw material handling to final filling.
Using real-world applications such as cold brew coffee and functional protein drinks, the partners will illustrate how digital native technologies can drastically enhance productivity and resource efficiency.
The intelligent separator: GEA Cloud in action
Visitors can experience the digital ecosystem firsthand through the GEA GSX 260 beverage separator. This skid-mounted machine acts as a live demonstration of connectivity:
- Central backbone: The machine is fully integrated into the GEA Cloud via secure edge gateways.
- Real-time analytics: operational data is analysed instantly to support performance analytics, energy monitoring, and predictive maintenance.
- AI assistance: The GEA InsightPartner system will be on display, showing how AI provides operators with optimisation recommendations and process reliability forecasts.
Modular flexibility via MTP standards
A major takeaway for plant engineers is the shift toward the Module Type Package (MTP) and OPC UA open standards. These technologies allow for vendor-independent, standardised descriptions of process modules.
- Simplified integration: MTP significantly reduces engineering effort by allowing production modules to be combined or swapped quickly.
- Agile architecture: this modular approach enables manufacturers to adapt capacities and plant configurations flexibly as market requirements change.
Reducing time to market through virtual engineering
GEA and Siemens will also highlight how virtual tools can de-risk physical production. By utilising Siemens’ SIMIT simulation platform and the TIA Portal, companies can create a digital twin to test process strategies before they are implemented on the factory floor. This virtual engineering approach is designed to shorten development cycles and ensure production projects are executed with higher reliability.
Don’t miss the presentation
For deeper technical insights, GEA and Siemens will host a joint presentation:
- Title: “From standardized CPG to standardized everything – powered by GEA & Siemens”.
- Time: April 22, 2026, 12:25–12:40 p.m. CEST.
- Location: Siemens Stage, Hall 27.
