Recipe for perfect casting

The foundry Karl Casper GmbH & Co. KG relies on Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) to optimize the composition of its melting material

The technology has meant not only enhanced process safety and consistent metering accuracy but also a complete tracking and tracing of the batches. The charge containers are outfitted with rugged transponders from Siemens.

Karl Casper GmbH & Co. KG produces high-quality industrial and art castings. Its production planning as well as tracking and tracing processes now rely on RFID technology. The transport containers for pig iron and steel scrap have been outfitted with transponders from Siemens, allowing them to be automatically identified. The technology also enables the allocation of different batches and software mapping of related processes.

Rugged and heat resistant

This application requires the RFID transponders to be capable of withstanding harsh conditions: Rough handling during loading and unloading, interference caused by strong electromagnets mounted on the crane and withstand high furnace temperatures without damage despite continuous use. The low-cost, heat-resistant RF680T transponder from Siemens rises to all these challenges. Designed for operating temperatures of up to 220°C, the rugged construction and IP68 protection rating of the RF680T make it ideally suited for use in foundries.

The radio signals are evaluated by the Simatic RF630R reader. A reader outfitted with an external Simatic RF640A UHF antenna is used on the furnace platform. A connected PLC and fieldbus communication module enable communication and provide the power supply to the reader. “The production of high-quality casting alloys requires a lot of experience, the mastery of all production processes and an optimal composition of the source materials. RFID is the right solution here”, says Casper’s Technical Manager Malte Lüking.