South Korean Steel-Manufacturer Opts for RFID-Based Track & Trace
A South Korean steel manufacturer plans to integrate a customized RFID system for the tracking and localization of steel bars. The goal is to improve logistics inventory and the accuracy of asset tracking of “work-in-process stock” in the yard. The mobile RFID readers α712 and α312 from Apulsetech are currently being tested on-site.
Challenges in the Yard
The steel manufacturer required a solution to improve the inaccurate location tracking of steel bars, and the number of unverified inventory in its internal logistics. These were issues caused by the limited space and complex manufacturing processes.
Work-in-process goods are often moved throughout different locations from production to the yard. Materials are loaded in multiple stages. A track and trace solution was required that would be able to withstand harsh environments. In the steel production line, this means being able to operate under high temperatures and in metal environments.
The RFID Testing Phase
Apulsetech’s α312 and α712 mobile RFID readers are used to read the RFID tags attached to steel bars.
An RFID track and trace solution was chosen for this project. One of the challenges of this project was to determine the optimal way to integrate the RFID tags into the existing labeling system.
South Korean reader manufacturer Apulsetech provided its α712 and α312 mobile and fixed RFID readers for initial tests. These tests showed that RFID tags that are 60-90 percent damaged as a result of processes such as heat treatment, tearing, and folding, can still be recognized within a certain distance, even under the harshest conditions. These tests confirmed that RFID systems could be effectively used to manage steel products.
The result: The RFID tags between the steel bars could be read without problems.
An RFID track and trace solution was chosen for this project. One of the challenges of this project was to determine the optimal way to integrate the RFID tags into the existing labeling system.
South Korean reader manufacturer Apulsetech provided its α712 and α312 mobile and fixed RFID readers for initial tests. These tests showed that RFID tags that are 60-90 percent damaged as a result of processes such as heat treatment, tearing, and folding, can still be recognized within a certain distance, even under the harshest conditions. These tests confirmed that RFID systems could be effectively used to manage steel products.
The result: The RFID tags between the steel bars could be read without problems.
Apulsetech’s α312 and α712 mobile RFID readers are used to read the RFID tags attached to steel bars.
In cooperation with Apulsetech, the steel manufacturer has developed and refined optimal implementation strategies and operational plans for the RFID system. This was accomplished through comprehensive on-site validation tests. This advancement in the testing phase facilitated precise individual product recognition and ensured reliable tag reading capabilities at distances of up to five meters.
To summarize: The tests were a great success. The solution not only enhances the efficiency of asset tracking, but also adheres to the industry standards for high-performance RFID deployments.
Plans for the Future
The steel manufacturer plans to integrate this customized RFID system into its existing MES and SAP systems through the phased implementation of each process. The implementation of an automated shipping system with RFID technology is also planned for process management, and in the loading and unloading areas.
