Automating the processing of Mill Test Certificates (MTCs)/ Material Test Report (MTR) / Certificate of Analysis (COA) presents a significant challenge due to the diverse range of chemical and physical properties found in these reports for raw materials. While MTR processing is crucial for quality assurance, it is often time-consuming. Fortunately, there is a more efficient way that can lead to substantial cost and time savings for fabricators and material customers.

Explore the 6 Steps to Automate MTC Processing

Understanding Mill Test Certificates:

A Mill Test Certificate (MTC)/ MTR/COA is a vital quality assurance document that certifies the exact chemical and physical properties of a material. MTRs, also known as Certified Mill Test Reports, Mill Test Certifications, Mill Inspection Certificates, or Certified Material Test Reports, ensure that a metal product complies with specific standards set by international organizations.

Key Information in Mill Test Certificates:

Mill Test Reports typically include details such as the country of production, physical and chemical property specifications, precise size or shape dimensions, and compliance with standards organizations like ANSI, ASME, or ASTM. These reports serve as evidence of a metal product's origin, traceability, and the processes involved in its creation.

Challenges in Automating MTC Processing:

Automating the processing of MTCs is challenging due to various factors, including the vast number of fields in the reports, differing layouts among manufacturers, poor image quality from printing and scanning, and the presence of multiple languages in international distribution.

Importance of MTC:

MTCs play a crucial role in quality assurance and compliance, with ASME certification requiring them to be kept on file for up to three years after product use. Maintaining this critical data in a database is essential for tracking and reporting purposes.

Six Steps to Automate MTC Processing:

1. Digitization / Image Processing: Remove non-text elements from the digital copy of the test report.
2. Optical Character Recognition: Recognize all languages and text characters on the material test report using OCR.
3. Machine Learning / Training: Train software to identify the document as an MTC, allowing for the recognition of additional attached documents.
4. Build Data Models: Create data collection models for important information on the MTC.
5. Human Data Review: Conduct a human review to ensure accuracy and flag uncertainties for further investigation.
6. Data Integration: Integrate MTC data and the digital copy of the document with existing quality software or reporting tools.

Discover how Star Software, an intelligent document processing platform, makes automating the review processes for mill test reports efficient and effective.

A Certificate of Analysis (COA) Report/ Material Test Report (MTR)/Mill Test Certificate (MTC) is a quality assurance document provided by the manufacturer that certifies the chemical and mechanical properties of a material, often related to metal products. It serves as a comprehensive record, detailing the production conditions, testing methods, and compliance with industry standards.

Importance of COAs/MTRs/MTCs:

• Quality Assurance:
• COAs ensure that materials meet specified standards and requirements, assuring end-users of the product's reliability and safety.
• Traceability:
• COAs provide traceability by documenting the source of raw materials, manufacturing processes, and testing procedures, helping in case of recalls or issues.
• Compliance:
• Industries such as construction, aerospace, and manufacturing have stringent regulations. COAs demonstrate compliance with these standards.
• Product Integrity:
• COAs confirm that the product conforms to the intended specifications, preventing the use of substandard materials in critical applications.

Varieties of Certificate of Analysis Reports

Various COAs/MTRs are employed across diverse industries, each serving distinct purposes. The following are some prevalent types:

1. Mill Test Report (MTR): The manufacturing sector commonly utilizes this MTR, generated by the material manufacturer. It furnishes details on the physical and chemical characteristics of the material.
2. Heat Number Traceability Report: Widely employed in the oil and gas industry, this report documents the material's production journey. It encompasses details such as the raw materials used, the heat treatment process, and any inspections conducted during production.
3. Inspection Test Plan (ITP): Outlining testing and inspection procedures during production, the ITP features a checklist specifying the tests to be conducted and the corresponding specifications.
4. Material Certification: Issued by third-party testing laboratories, this report certifies that the material has undergone testing and meets the specified requirements. Commonly utilized in the construction industry, it attests to the material's compliance with set standards.
5. Material Test Certificate (MTC): Serving as a generic term encompassing various MTR types, the MTC provides comprehensive information on the material's properties and composition. It may include any combination of the details mentioned above.

Understanding COA/ MTR Content:

• Material Composition:
• Breakdown of the chemical composition, ensuring it aligns with the specified requirements.
• Mechanical Properties:
• Details on mechanical tests like tensile strength, yield strength, and elongation provide insights into material performance.
• Heat Treatment:
• Information on any heat treatment processes, essential for certain materials to achieve desired properties.
• Testing Methods:
• Explanation of the testing procedures employed, including non-destructive testing, visual inspection, and more.

How to decipher a Certificate of Analysis ( COA)/MTR report?

Deciphering a COA report may pose a challenge, especially for those not frequently engaged with such documents. Complicating matters, COA formats lack a standardized structure, and the documents are commonly translated from other languages, adding an extra layer of complexity. However, amidst these challenges, when navigating a Certificate of Analysis/Mill Test Report, it's reassuring to know that the verification of the material's physical and chemical composition remains a consistent aspect, irrespective of the document's origin.

Reading an COA/MTR/MTC – Step 1

The initial examination of an MTR commences with a physical assessment of the material either on the shop floor or within the warehouse. Verification involves confirming the presence and clear identification of the heat number on the material's surface. A comparison between this number and the corresponding MTR is conducted to ensure alignment. Basic surface and edge measurements are then performed to affirm that the material adheres to project specifications based on physical dimensions and thickness.

Reading an COA/MTR/MTC – Step 2

Moving to subsequent inspection steps, individuals need to consult the relevant ASME/ASTM/EN standards section corresponding to their project's material requirements. Here, the chemical composition table is located, and a comparison is made between the percentage values presented in the MTR and the acceptable range specified in the table. Common elements include Carbon (C), Chromium (Cr), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), Molybdenum (Mo), Nitrogen (N), Nickel (Ni), Phosphor (P), Sulphur (S), and Silicon (Si).

Reading an COA/MTR/MTC – Step 3

Following the examination of the chemical analysis, attention is directed to the mechanical property table associated with the same specification. A parallel process is undertaken, comparing the measured values in the MTR with the acceptable range outlined in the mechanical properties section. Essential mechanical properties for assessment encompass tensile strength, hardness, charpy impact test results, and yield strength.

Once these three components undergo a satisfactory review, the MTR can be archived, digitized, and linked to the material, signifying its clearance for progression to the subsequent stage in the production process.

Challenges Faced by QA/Engineering Departments:

• Manual Documentation: The traditional process of manually collecting, organizing, and documenting MTRs can be time-consuming and prone to errors.
• Data Integrity: The risk of data entry errors and misinterpretation can compromise the accuracy of recorded information.
• Storage and Retrieval: Managing large volumes of MTRs becomes challenging, affecting the ease of retrieval for audits or reference.

Introducing Automation:

To overcome these challenges, QA/Engineering departments can consider implementing automation solutions. Automated systems can:

• Streamline Data Entry: Automation reduces the need for manual data entry, minimizing errors and improving data integrity.
• Centralized Storage: A centralized digital repository allows for easy storage, retrieval, and sharing of MTRs, enhancing accessibility and audit readiness.
• Real-time Monitoring: Automated systems enable real-time monitoring of production processes, ensuring timely identification and resolution of discrepancies.

Conclusion:

MTRs are indispensable for ensuring the quality and integrity of materials in various industries. As technology advances, embracing automation can significantly enhance the efficiency of QA/Engineering departments, making the process of managing and documenting MTRs more seamless and less time-consuming. By adopting automated solutions, organizations can not only improve data accuracy but also stay ahead in an increasingly competitive and regulated environment.

The finance industry is undergoing a radical transformation, driven by the convergence of abundant data, the omnipresence of artificial intelligence (AI), and an unrelenting demand for efficiency and cost-effectiveness. This transformative force, automation, is leaving an indelible mark on every facet of finance, reshaping back-office operations, revolutionizing customer service, and fundamentally altering risk management. Let's embark on a detailed exploration of the multifaceted impact of automation, substantiated by compelling data and specific examples.

1. Efficiency and Productivity Revolution:

Automation stands as the linchpin for a revolution in efficiency and productivity, liberating finance professionals from mundane, time-consuming tasks. Two notable examples exemplify this transformation:

• Robotic Process Automation (RPA): A game-changing force, RPA can automate a staggering 80% of tasks, including data entry, reconciliation, and reporting. This not only frees up a significant 60-75% of agent time but also ensures precision and consistency (Accenture,2018).
• Artificial Intelligence (AI) & Machine Learning (ML): The AI in fintech market is burgeoning,surging from $9.15 billion in 2022 to $11.59 billion in 2023, boasting a remarkable annual growth rate of 26.8% (thebusinessresearchcompany.com). Moreover, 70% of financial services companies are leveraging machine learning to enhance statistical and predictive capabilities, challenging traditional approaches across the industry.

2. Revolutionizing Finance Operations: AI-Powered Document Process Automation

Gartner's recent findings highlight the substantial impact of AI-driven automation in finance document processes, showcasing a remarkable 50% reduction in manual tasks. McKinsey's data reinforces this, indicating a 60% improvement in document retrieval times for finance businesses harnessing AI (Source: McKinsey). Beyond mere statistics, this symbiotic fusion of AI and DPA in finance translates into heightened efficiency, accuracy, and productivity. AI's adeptness at handling intricate financial data ensures the swift extraction and processing of complex information,minimizing errors and maximizing resource utilization.

3. Customer Service Evolution:

Automation is the catalyst for a paradigm shift in customer service within the finance sector,introducing 24/7 support and elevating customer satisfaction:

• Chatbots: A resounding 82% of customers express satisfaction with interactions facilitated by chatbots, underlining their effectiveness in providing instant and efficient customer support (Oracle, 2019).
• Virtual Assistants: AI-powered virtual assistants are redefining personalized customer service by comprehending customer requests, offering recommendations, and facilitating transactions seamlessly.
•  Self-Service Portals: Empowering customers to manage their accounts online, self-service portals not only enhance customer autonomy but also alleviate the burden on customer service representatives.

4. Enhanced Risk Management:

Automation is proving indispensable in fortifying risk management strategies within the finance industry:

•  AI-powered Fraud Detection Systems: These systems contribute significantly to reducing fraud, with AI shown to cut fraud rates by up to 50% (McKinsey, 2017).
• Algorithmic Trading Platforms: Automation aids in analyzing market data, identifying potential risks, and enabling informed trading decisions.
• Predictive Analytics: Predictive analytics, a product of automation, assists in forecasting future events, thereby enhancing risk management protocols.

5. Empowering Job Evolution in the Finance Industry Through Automation

In the dynamic landscape of the finance industry, automation is ushering in a positive transformation for employment opportunities:

• Back-Office Efficiency Boost: Automation targets repetitive and data-driven back-office tasks, not as a threat to jobs, but as a catalyst for increased efficiency and cost-effectiveness.This streamlined approach allows professionals to redirect their focus towards more strategic and value-driven endeavors.
• Front-Office Human Embrace: Roles demanding the distinct touch of human interaction and judgment remain resilient against automation trends. This underscores the enduring value of human expertise, particularly in client-facing positions where personal connections and nuanced decision-making continue to thrive.
• New Horizons of Opportunity: Far from diminishing roles, the rise of automation has become a catalyst for the emergence of new, dynamic positions. From data analysis to AI development and cybersecurity, the industry is witnessing a surge in demand for skills that align with the evolving landscape. This presents a positive shift, fostering the creation of roles that resonate with the contemporary demands of the finance sector.

In summary, the automated future of finance, marked by a paradigm shift in operations, elevated service quality, and strengthened risk management, aligns seamlessly with Star Software's value proposition. The concrete advantages, ranging from significant time savings to an elevated level of customer satisfaction, vividly demonstrate the transformative impact of automation. As we traverse this evolving landscape, the crucial role of adaptability and skill acquisition becomes even more apparent, presenting a pivotal opportunity for finance professionals and organizations to excel in this era of unparalleled change with the support of Star Software's innovative solutions.

Material Test Reports (MTRs) play a pivotal role across diverse industries, spanning manufacturing, construction, healthcare, aerospace, automotive, oil and gas sectors, and many more. They furnish intricate insights into the chemical and mechanical composition of materials, a crucial aspect of quality control and compliance assurance.

Nevertheless, the conventional MTR processing methods are often laborious and susceptible to errors. Extracting data manually from tables and charts can prove painstaking and unreliable. Compounding the challenge, MTRs are replete with technical terminology and complex jargon, making interpretation a daunting task.

This is where AI document automation steps in, poised to revolutionize the way MTRs are processed. By harnessing the formidable power of artificial intelligence (AI) and optical character recognition (OCR), AI document automation software emerges as a game-changer in the realm of MTR processing. It efficiently and accurately extracts data from MTRs, resulting in significant savings in both time and resources, while also mitigating the risk of errors that has plagued traditional methods.

Here are some key advantages of adopting AI document automation for MTR processing:

Enhanced Precision: AI document automation software is adept at handling vast datasets of MTRs, enabling it to extract data with remarkable precision, even from the most intricate and complex documents.
Heightened Efficiency: AI document automation significantly outpaces the manual methods when it comes to processing MTRs, liberating employees to focus on more value-added tasks rather than mundane data entry.
Cost Savings: Implementing AI document automation can lead to substantial cost savings for businesses, particularly in areas related to data entry and MTR processing.
Regulatory Compliance: AI document automation simplifies the process of ensuring that MTRs adhere to the relevant industry standards and regulations, streamlining the creation and management of these critical documents.
Beyond these immediate benefits, AI document automation empowers businesses to:
Unearth Insights from MTR Data: AI document automation software has the capability to analyze MTR data, enabling the identification of trends and patterns within the data. This valuable information can be utilized to improve quality control, enhance product development, and optimize various other operational processes.

Automate Other Document-Driven Processes: The versatility of AI document automation extends beyond MTR processing. It can be leveraged to automate a wide array of document-driven processes, including purchase order processing, invoice handling, and contract management. This versatility further contributes to improving overall efficiency and productivity.

For any enterprise seeking to elevate their MTR processing capabilities, AI document automation stands as an invaluable and forward-thinking solution.

Streamlining MTR Processing with Star Software:
At the forefront of AI document automation is Star Software, offering a comprehensive solution for MTR automation. The user-friendly software requires no coding expertise; it is as simple as uploading your MTRs, and our AI engine automatically extracts the pertinent data. This process enables you to review the extracted data and make any necessary adjustments, ensuring accuracy and precision.

Moreover, Star Software provides a range of features that enhance MTR processing compliance, including seamless referencing of ASTM and ASME standards, ensuring that your MTRs meet all the relevant standards and regulations.
For a more in-depth understanding of how Star Software can streamline your MTR processing through automation, we encourage you to reach out to us today. Discover how this technology can transform your MTR processing, making it more efficient, accurate, and hassle-free.