Automatic condition monitoring in the hot strip mill of Rautaruukki Oy Raahe Steel Works.

Abstract

Since 1980 maintenance at the Raahe Steel Works was directed towards a condition based system. Condition based control measurements were systematically increased and diversified. the measuring equipment for maintenance purposes was strongly developed. Active development work has made condition control a reliable means of maintenance control. Due to condition based maintenance the maintenance costs per output was considerably reduced and the working reliability of the production lines has improved. For example, the mechanical maintenance costs of the rolling mill department were reduced by more than 20% from 1981 to 1986. Condition control measurements were made manually with portable measuring units. For further development of condition control, an automatic condition monitoring system was acquired for the hot strip mill.