Primetals Technologies Launches the Latest Smart Guide Solution for the Long Rolling Industry

• Advanced Roller Guides combine rugged mechanical precision with modern smart-sensing capabilities
• Safer operation through remote, hands-free roller adjustments and wireless monitoring
• Enhanced accuracy and product quality through continuous section height measurement, guide alignment tracking, and early wear detection
• Increased efficiency and productivity with predictive diagnostics and real-time condition monitoring

Primetals Technologies has launched its patented Advanced Roller Guides, a next-generation monitoring and control solution for long rolling mills built on the proven legacy of Morgan and Ashlow guide technology. The system combines robust mechanical design with smart sensing technology to improve safety, efficiency, reliability, and overall mill performance.

Enhanced Safety Through Remote Operation

Designed for rod and bar mills, Advanced Roller Guides address alignment inaccuracies, cobbles, and unplanned downtime while improving dimensional accuracy, enabling predictive maintenance, and reducing manual measurements. The system achieves this by digitizing and monitoring critical guide functions, including section height measurement, guide alignment, bearing and roller condition, speed monitoring, and impact trend analysis.

With built-in wireless communication, Advanced Roller Guides give mill operators remote, hands-free access to continuous section height measurement, eliminating the need for manual methods such as calipers or burning wood. Operators can also adjust and monitor guide conditions and performance from a safe distance, reducing exposure to high-risk areas.

One early adopter noted, “The guides we have trialed have performed extremely well, and the modifications made to the program for continuous mills have been very helpful. The key for us was that it provided the information needed to prevent a cobble and reduce the risk of injury, which is more likely to occur during upset conditions.”

Increased Mill Efficiency and Optimized Performance

Advanced Roller Guides provide continuous section height tracking, guide alignment monitoring, and internal condition diagnostics. Predictive features detect wear early, optimize guide settings, and support consistent, reliable mill operation.

The system operates as standalone units or integrates seamlessly with plantwide digital platforms. Available in multiple sizes, the guides fit standard mounting saddles without restbar modifications. The modular, smart-ready design enables phased integration and upgrades, while the enclosed stainless-steel control module ensures long-term durability in harsh mill environments. A user-friendly interface simplifies setup, training, and daily operation.

Key Facts: Benefits for Rolling Mill Operators

• Enhanced Safety — Remote operation and monitoring reduce exposure to hazardous mill conditions
• Higher Productivity — Faster adjustments, continuous monitoring, and predictive diagnostics increase uptime and throughput
• Improved Product Quality — Accurate alignment, continuous section height measurement, and early wear detection reduce scrap, cobbles, and second-quality product
• Greater Efficiency — Optimized setups and maintenance planning streamline operations and reduce downtime
• Lower Operational Costs — Extended component life, optimized maintenance, and reduced manual intervention lower expenses