SMS group (Mönchengladbach, Germany):

M. Wilms, Vice President Seamless Tubes Plant, e-mail: Michael.wilms@sms-group.com

SMS Group has put into practice the new modern automation technologies at its new PQF mill. Production automation of Tenaris company is based on CARTA (Computer-Aided Rolling Technology Application) system for hot rolling of seamless tubes. CARTA consists of 3 modules. Planning module of technological process calculates settings for rolling equipment and tool construction. Module for control of technological process provides on-line monitoring and analysis of technological data. Tool control module is responsible for exact and timely usage of tools. The CaliView system provides direct feedback with mobile control system and exact roll setting during measurement as well as wear of work rolls. SMS group also developed complex tracking solution to control material floes and monitor of each tube. Identification Database software accumulates corresponding information about each technological unit and automatically names each tube with its unique number via Data Gathering Terminals. The annual mill production makes 600,000 tons of seamless precise tubes with diameter up to 244.5 mm.