Process Optimization for the Manufacturing of Seamless Steel Tubes in a Continuous Mandrel Mill and a Stretch Reducing Mill

Abstract An automatic control system was developed to optimize the production of seamless steel tubes on a continuous mandrel mill and a stretch reducing mill. It was implemented through the use of an on-line motor stand speed control in the rolling process. The main objectives of the system are the improvement of the geometry of the tubes and the reduction of the amount of thickened tube end. Complete mathematical models of the processes have been developed in order to find the most appropriate control scheme. The systems have been implemented using PLCs, Industrial Terminals and Industrial Graphics Processors. Complete auto-diagnostic and fault detection schemes have also been developed.