Automotive traceability across five production lines
In the world of the automotive industry, where precision, quality and tracking of every component in the production process are crucial, Tenneco chose the Traceability System solution provided by SystemSmart. The project involved the creation of a Traceability System for 50 workstations across five production lines, providing end-to-end product traceability from raw material input to finished product production.
Project facts
| Industry | Automotive |
|---|---|
| Scale | approximately 50 workstations across five production lines |
| Technology | Siemens PLCs, HMI panels and a central database |
| Scope | design, control-cabinet prefabrication, installation, commissioning and training |
| Support | 24/7 technical service |
Traceability system design and implementation
SystemSmart, an industrial automation specialist, developed a customised Traceability system for Tenneco, taking into account the client’s unique needs. The project started with a requirements analysis and system design, which included 50 workstations on 5 production lines. We then proceeded to create the database and select the appropriate hardware, including Siemens PLCs and operator panels.
Prefabrication of automation cabinets and on-site assembly
Prefabrication of the automation cabinets was carried out to the highest quality standards, ensuring trouble-free system operation. Once prefabrication was complete, SystemSmart’s assembly team proceeded to install the equipment on site, carrying out the necessary testing and commissioning.
Employee induction and training
Once the installation was complete, SystemSmart proceeded with the implementation of Traceability, providing comprehensive training to Tenneco employees. Employees were trained in the use of the system and the principles of traceability so that they could use the new solutions in their daily work.
24-hour system service
Once the entire system has been implemented, SystemSmart also provides a 24/7 service, ensuring that the customer receives technical support and any problems are resolved at any time.
Traceability and MES functions in one data flow
In operational terms, part of the solution covers the functions of a MES module: it collects machine data, assigns results to an individual product, controls product flow between workstations and gives production and quality teams access to process history. The architecture can operate as a standalone traceability system or be extended as an execution layer integrated with MES and ERP.
- process-parameter and quality-result recording,
- operation-sequence and product-flow control,
- component identification and product genealogy,
- reporting for production, quality and maintenance teams,
- integration with PLC, HMI, SQL databases and higher-level systems.
See how these capabilities are delivered in the TraceSmart traceability and MES module.
Benefits for Tenneco
By using the Traceability system provided by SystemSmart, Tenneco now has full control over every stage of production. The system allows each product to be tracked, from the input of raw materials, through the production process, to the release of the finished product. This allows the company to quickly identify potential problems, optimise processes and ensure the highest quality products.
The Smart System – comprehensive solutions for individual needs
SystemSmart’s implementation of the Traceability system project for Tenneco is an excellent example of comprehensive customised solutions. By working with SystemSmart, Tenneco can now be confident that it not only has an efficient and reliable traceability system, but also a partner that has provided a comprehensive service at every stage of the project.
Frequently asked questions
What does an automotive traceability system record?
It links materials, components, operators, process parameters and quality results to the product history, from the first operation to the finished item.
Can traceability work with an existing production line?
Yes. SystemSmart integrates traceability with existing PLCs, HMI panels, SQL databases and, where required, MES, ERP and SCADA systems.
Planning a similar project? Explore our industrial automation services or contact the SystemSmart engineering team.
