SMX radial forging machine upgrade to secure high-quality production
Aubert & Duval, a manufacturer of high-performance steel and superalloys, commissioned SMS group in March 2024 to modernize the complete electrical control system and the hydraulic system of its radial forging machine, the SMX, supplied by SMS group in the 1990’s. The modernization was carried out at Aubert & Duval’s Les Ancizes site in France, and SMS group completed it within an 18-week construction period. The decision to upgrade was driven by the need to replace aging equipment with innovative technology to secure machine availability and increase production efficiency.
Based in central France, Aubert & Duval operates an SMX hydraulic radial forging machine, supplied by SMS. The project scope included plant engineering, electrical systems and automation, digitalization, ancillary equipment, and service. During the modernization process, the complete electrical control system, including power and control cabinets, switchgear, cabling, operator panels, and visualization, was upgraded. The ComForge® Forging Technology Suite was integrated to support machine operators throughout the production process, from calculating pass schedules to optimizing material properties. At the same time, the hydraulic system was modified to include new valves, hydraulic safety manifolds, and optional functions that enhance usability. The modernization was implemented within the existing machine structure. The overall construction period lasted 18 weeks, comprising five weeks of mechanical and electrical erection, followed by 13 weeks of cold and hot commissioning, as well as production support.
A key commissioning requirement was to keep all production-relevant parameters identical to the previous system in order to comply with Aubert & Duval’s product qualifications. This ensured ongoing, high-quality production using the existing hydraulic radial forging machine at Aubert & Duval’s Les Ancizes site. This was made possible, among other things, by upgrading the ComForge® Forging Technology Suite, which integrated the former piercing patterns into the new system. Les Ancizes is a site renowned for its expertise in forging and metallurgy and serves critical sectors including aerospace, energy, and defense. Ensuring product qualifications is key to remaining competitive with next-generation technology.
