According to the German manufacturer SMS Group, the company has completed an upgrade project covering automation systems for lowering coils at the No. 1 hot strip mill operated by Thyssenkrupp Steel Europe at its Duisburg site in Germany.
Scope of modernization
The SMS group stated that the project is aimed at updating automation systems and human-machine interface (HMI) level 1 for three mill closers. The modernization was aimed at overcoming the limitations associated with aging management platforms and discontinued spare parts, while preparing equipment for ongoing digitalization. The power plant manufacturer confirmed that the updated Process control System (CTK) and the revised HMI environment have improved the consistency of operation in the winding area.
Ongoing cooperation
SMS Group noted that the downcoiler automation project is part of a long-term collaboration with Thyssenkrupp Steel Europe, according to which individual installations of the hot strip mill in Duisburg have been upgraded in stages over the past years to maintain system performance and availability.
The hot rolling mill, which was originally supplied by SMS Group, is part of Thyssenkrupp Steel Europe's flat steel production network and produces carbon steel flat products of various grades and sizes. According to SMS Group, the Duisburg facility remains a key production asset and continues to undergo targeted technical modernization.
