The plant in BCO design (bilateral change over) will produce seamless tubes with improved tolerances. With this new plant, Tenaris will be able to meet the increased demand for precise, high-strength tubes among others for shale-gas extraction in the U.S.
 
The stands of the PQF plant in BCO design are changed on both sides of the rolling mill. Compact and easily accessible construction increases the user-friendliness of the plant. The drive concept is realized more simply and is thus easier to maintain. In addition, the hydraulic capsules (hydraulic adjustment) are rigidly connected with the rolling mill frame, while the rolling forces are symmetrically distributed over the rolling mill. These measures enhance the flexibility and efficiency of the plant. The annual capacity is 600,000 tons per year.
 
The PQF® plant ordered produces tubes in the size range of up to 9 5/8". The OCTG tubes are used for gas and oil extraction and must meet very high demands on quality and tolerances according to API standard.
 
SMS Meer will supply the plant engineering, the respective engineering for the construction and is responsible for supervision of erection and commissioning including customer training.
 
This is the first seamless tube plant set up by Tenaris at a production site in the U.S. Five years ago, the world’s largest tube producer ordered a 7" PQF plant from SMS Meer for its TenarisTamsa site in Mexico.
 
The new plant is scheduled to go on stream in 2016.