Salzgitter relies on X-Pact® process automation from SMS group to get hot strip mill fit for the future

• Guaranteed high process stability and safety in the hot strip mill thanks to state-of-the-art process technology from SMS group
• New control concepts enable capacity and productivity increases in the rolling mill
• Self-optimizing control combines all process stages to create a superordinate temperature model

Salzgitter Flachstahl GmbH has awarded SMS group the contract to supply a comprehensive technology package for its hot strip mill in Salzgitter. Following the systematic mechatronic modernization of the hot strip mill in recent years, Salzgitter is now relying on state-of-the-art control systems and process models from the X-Pact^® product family.

Alongside an array of new functions and a harmonized tool environment, operated on the most advanced automation platforms, the scope of supply also includes the X-Pact^® Integrated Temperature Model as a learning, self-optimizing process control feature. This combines all process steps to form a superordinate temperature model and generates comprehensive recommendations for enhancing product quality and plant productivity. Energy-consumption-oriented operating modes are included, as is the forward calculation of entire rolling schedules for manufacturing high-quality and temperature-sensitive steels with overall improved product characteristics. At the same time, the X-Pact^® Plant Pacing system optimizes the throughput and productivity of the entire plant.

“For Salzgitter, it was and continues to be vital to have a partner that not only has impressive technical expertise, but also offers us the prospect of advancing together beyond the current state of the art. As well as the right commercial framework conditions, we found this combination of technical excellence and shared growth prospects at SMS,” says Achim Pekrul, project manager at Salzgitter.

In addition to the level 2 automation, the integrated strip guiding control system, known as X-Pact^® Centerline Control, is also part of SMS’s scope of supply. This solution utilizes a camera system, the X-Pact^® Sense hotCAM, to detect deviations in the strip flow and calculates correction signals for each mill stand. As a result, manual interventions by the operating personnel to avoid unscheduled downtimes and malfunctions are significantly reduced. The technology package for Salzgitter Flachstahl is rounded off by the new X-Pact^® PEAK control concept, which helps to boost capacity and productivity levels in the rolling mill.

The hot strip mill is a core component of the production process at Salzgitter Flachstahl. As the perfect partner for integrated lifecycle services, SMS group is making a major contribution to the further development of the technology and process engineering towards more sustainable, more profitable and self-optimizing plant operations.