MEERdrive® PLUS is SMS group’s advanced sizing block designed for high‑speed, high‑precision wire rod production. Thanks to its individual drive concept, each stand is powered by its own motor, reducing energy consumption by up to 30% compared to conventional finishing blocks. The system enables rolling of all steel grades from 4.5 to 28 mm at constant speeds above 120 m/s while maintaining tight tolerances and excellent ovality control. Fast changeover times of around five minutes, reduced roll ring inventory, and camera‑based alignment systems significantly increase mill availability and productivity. MEERdrive® PLUS can be integrated into new or existing mills, offering maximum flexibility and performance.
Customer challenges addressed
- Rolling speeds above 120 m/s, design speed up to 140 m/s
- Wire rod sizes from 4.5 to 28 mm with tight tolerances
- Up to 30% lower energy consumption than conventional blocks
- Around 60% reduction in roll ring inventory
- Finishing temperatures down to 750 °C
- Changeover times of about 5 minutes for the full unit
- Improved ovality control through short final pass spacing