REDUÇÃO DE QUEDA DE TARUGO NO TRANSPORTE COM ELETROÍMÃ: ESTUDO DE CASO EM PONTE ROLANTE NUMA SIDERÚRGICA

Abstract

This study analyzed the causes and possible solutions for failures in the transportation of metal billets in a steel industry in Minas Gerais, Brazil. The central problem identified refers to the recurrent dropping of billets during handling by overhead cranes equipped with electromagnets, an event that compromised operational safety and productive efficiency. The objective of this work was to investigate the technical causes of these failures—such as component wear, electrical instability, and the absence of emergency systems—and to propose corrective measures based on technical standards and good engineering practices. The methodology adopted was a case study, with an applied and quantitative approach, allowing the correlation of operational data with practical solutions. The modernization of the system involved the installation of a battery bank to maintain magnetization in situations of electrical failure, the reconfiguration of the pantographs on both sides of the overhead crane, and the implementation of a detailed preventive and corrective maintenance plan. The results showed the complete elimination of billet drops after the interventions, proving the effectiveness of the measures. The research concludes that the integration between technology, systematic maintenance, and compliance with NR-10 and NR-11 standards is essential to guarantee safety, reliability, and operational continuity. The study reinforces the importance of technical planning and the modernization of industrial systems as fundamental strategies for the improvement of the Brazilian steel industry.