Rolling is a very complex and demanding process as far as automation is concerned. First of all, the train has to be linked to the upstream caster´s performance. Focusing operation within the train, many parameters controlling the rolling stock in terms of material, its final properties and dimensions as well as the rolling equipment have to be adjusted. This is a great challenge, especially considering the high speed of the process.

The first process data management system for hot rolling mills was developed for a roughing and finishing train. It is designed to handle far more than 2500 channels and to integrate the full production line from furnace to downcoiler.

Long term storage of each and any coil data allows the continuous improvement of production quality.

For the first time, one single system provided process engineers and maintenance staff with an integrated view of all control system and production data. It is noteworthy that this happens at the high sampling rates of more than 1 kHz for each channel as required by the very fast hot rolling process.

A detailed analysis performed after one year of operation proved that production downtime had been reduced significantly.