The new MES offers Gerdau a deep integration with the existing level 1 and level 2 systems. Source: iStock/vm, Primetals Technologies, PSI Metals
Berlin, 1 July 2020 – PSI Metals has been awarded by Gerdau Ouro Branco with the implementation of a Manufacturing Execution System (MES) for its melt shop at an integrated plant in Ouro Branco, Minas Gerais in Brazil. The project will be executed in cooperation with Primetals Technologies, combining leading automation and metallurgical as well as software know-how in the steel industry.
The new MES offers a deep integration with the existing level 1 and level 2 systems of Primetals Technologies based on standard interfaces. The solution uses the production management software PSImetals, which is already installed in the plate mill and hot strip mill lines in Ouro Branco. To improve the quality of the production processes, the MES offers operators a holistic view of the running production from the melt shop to the plate and hot strip mill.
In addition, Gerdau will profit from seamless material genealogy of the final products (plates and coils) to the original heat and an improved quality deviation management. Further benefits are the standardization of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) and control measures and the creation of a digital twin for simulations and analysis as well as the facilitation of schedule execution and an increased reliability of the production management system.
The new MES solution will be developed in collaboration with Primetals Technologies and PSI Metals. Both have been working closely in projects for production management solutions in the steel industry since 2016. By obtaining a harmonized MES, Gerdau will reduce integration costs, shorten project times and simplify IT processes.
With over 30,000 employees in 10 countries, Gerdau has been the largest steel producer in Brazil for 119 years and one of the leading manufacturers of long steel in America and worldwide of special steel.
Based on its own software products, PSI Group develops and integrates complete solutions for optimizing the flow of energy and materials for utilities (energy networks, energy trading, public transport) and industry (mining, metals production, automotive, mechanical engineering, logistics). PSI was founded in 1969 and employs 2,000 persons worldwide.