This permits an inventory of stacked slabs if the tags are placed in a position where they may be safely scanned while stacked. Similar approaches could be used with bar coded tags. Concerns remain over losing tag identification if the band breaks or drops off. Abbreviated paint marks or dot peen markings could be added to permit manual recovery of the product's identity if the band is lost. 6 - Tag with band slots.
Some mills consider that side nailing on slabs can produce defects in the rolled products.
End nailing may be preferred since this area is often sheared prior to rolling. Virtually all nailing is done manually. No additional consumables beyond argon and electric power are required. Plasma welding can tack the tag edge in such a way that the tag can be later easily hinged-off if desired. 7 - Tag attached to bilet end by plasma welding.