Portuguese Lusosider collaborates with Fives to optimize zinc consumption in the galvanizing line

Portuguese sheet steel manufacturer Lusosider Aços Planos has launched a new zinc efficiency improvement project at its continuous galvanizing line in Payo Pires with an annual capacity of 275,000 tons. The company has ordered the French engineering company Fives Group to supply a digital solution that reduces zinc consumption while providing a higher coating quality.

Digital solution to improve coating performance

The project focuses on the installation of a new model of pneumatic knife designed according to a performance-based contract. This advanced system fully automates the wiping process, allowing precise adjustment of coating parameters. By stabilizing the weight of the zinc coating during transitions, the model helps to limit overlap, reduce zinc usage, and improve surface quality.

According to Rui Gonçalves, Maintenance and Investment Manager at Lusosider, the new technology will provide greater control over the zinc electrolysis cell area, especially during transition periods. "This solution will significantly reduce zinc consumption and prevent quality problems," he said.