Bahrain-based Sulb Company BSC, a major manufacturer of medium and heavy beams and structural steel sections in the Middle East, has partnered with TBK Automation and Measuring Technology GmbH to implement an advanced autonomous dimensional measuring system for sections, along with a surface defect detection software.
This state-of-the-art measuring system will be installed in the existing SMS heavy section mill at Sulb’s site in Hidd, Bahrain, with the aim of elevating product quality through precise and autonomous measurement throughout the production process.
In December 2022, Sulb placed an order with TBK, a subsidiary of the SMS group, for automatic online measuring systems utilizing laser light section technology for the heavy section mill at the Hidd site, which was also supplied by the SMS group.
The comprehensive supply package includes the PROgauge, a dimensional light section measuring system for sections, and SurfTec, software designed to detect surface anomalies. By providing a complete solution, TBK establishes its first reference in the Arabian Peninsula through this order.
Working in synergy with the mechanical expertise of the SMS group, the PROgauge will be positioned directly between the end stand and the hot saw to accurately measure the beams while in a hot condition and before cutting. This enables the early detection of periodic defects and deviations from tolerances, allowing prompt implementation of corrective actions.
Sulb will be equipped with a PROgauge 1300×600-8ES, ensuring precise mapping of the cross-sectional shape along the entire length of the hot-rolled heavy sections. Through this implementation, SULB enhances production efficiency by swiftly identifying deviations from conformity during the ongoing production process. In addition, the SurfTec software complements the dimensional measurement capabilities of the PROgauge by inspecting the entire product surface and indicating any deviations from the ideal surface. This empowers SULB to consistently produce beams within tolerance limits and proactively make necessary corrections in the rolling mill.
The SMS group takes full responsibility for the mechanical and electrical integration of the PROgauge laser measuring system into the existing line. The commissioning of the PROgauge laser measuring system and the SurfTec surface defect detection software is expected to take place in Q1/Q2 2024, facilitated by TBK with support from the local SMS group team.
Sulb produces 1.6 mln tons per annum of Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) from iron ore pellets manufactured by sister company Bahrain Steel, along with 1.1 mln tons per annum of semi-finished steel. The company’s heavy section mill in Bahrain has a capacity of 600,000 tons per year, while the medium and light section mill in Jubail, KSA can produce 450,000 tons per year.
