How IoT sensors optimize heating and internal transport in the steel industry




After the metal material is cast and cooled, it is transported, stored and then moved to a new location. This may be within the plant, at large industrial sites, or at an outside party that performs the next step in the production process.
Often, after cooling, the metal must be reheated before further processing is possible. A reheating furnace is used for this purpose. At this stage, it is essential to closely monitor temperature, drive and air flows. Not only to keep the process efficient, but also to ensure the quality of the material and minimize risks.
1. Infrared temperature sensors
When reheating the metal, accurate temperature control is essential. Too low a temperature can lead to incomplete machining, while too high a temperature can degrade material properties. Temperature sensors provide optimal furnace control and guarantee that the material reaches the correct processing condition. This prevents energy waste and increases product quality.
2. Ampere/consumption sensors
Transporting material via rollers or conveyor belts is a potential bottleneck. Motors can overload or wear out, leading to downtime or damage. By monitoring the power consumption of these drives, anomalies can be detected early. This increases the reliability of the conveying process and prevents unexpected downtime.
3. Pressure/vacuum sensors
The reheating oven contains air and gas flows that are gere
