Austria-based plantmaker Siemens VAI Metals Technologies has received an order from German steel producer ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe AG to equip the finishing mill hot strip plant No. 2 at its Duisburg-Beeckerwerth location with new mechanical components. The objectives of the project are to further improve product quality of the surface finish of the hot strip produced as well as extend the range of products to include thicker and wider strips. Modernization of the hot strip rolling mill is scheduled to be completed in August 2012.
The Beeckerwerth location of ThyssenKrupp Steel Europe produces more than six million metric tons of crude steel per annum. The company produces hot rolled coils on a rolling line with an edger press, two roughing stands and a finishing mill consisting of seven, four-high stands.
To modernize the finishing mill, Siemens will supply the work roll cooling and anti-peeling systems for two of the stands to safeguard the roll surfaces. Stands F2 to F4 will also be equipped with a roll-gap lubrication system, including the associated operating media systems. This will reduce the roll separating force required and the wear on the rolls, as well as improving the standard of finish of the hot strip. The scope of supply also includes powerful, hydraulic loopers with an operating pressure of 280 bars, which will allow a greater range of strip tension between the stands. Siemens is also responsible for the hydraulic system and the pipework.
The hot strip mill No. 2 also has an operating intensive cooling system provided by Siemens in December 2010.