One of Europe’s best-in-class steel producers has chosen digital technology leader ABB to provide a complete automation and electrical package for the tandem cold rolling mill of their steel plant based in Europe.
The delivery will provide an integrated, turnkey solution for the site that will be easier to operate and manage from initial installation, and over the lifetime of the mill. The project started in the summer of 2019 with completion expected in December 2020.
The order includes a new ABB Ability System 800xA extended automation system with visualization and diagnostic solutions, AC 800 PEC programmable controllers; induction motors fed by ABB’s ACS6080 medium voltage (MV) drives, and related MV switchgears and transformers. In addition, ABB will provide a full range of services, including project management, engineering, commissioning, installation and site supervision. ABB will perform a comprehensive factory acceptance test (FAT) using digital twin simulations to ensure successful shutdown and post-commissioning ramp-up.
“This important project strengthens our relationship with one of Europe’s top steel producers,” said Bernd Sachweh, Head of ABB’s Metals business. “ABB has already completed several significant installations for this customer; our history of timely and successful project execution, expertise and comprehensive solution and service portfolio helped us to win this order.”
The complete electrical and automation upgrade is set to improve reliability, strip quality and increase the speed and torque of the tandem cold rolling mill drives, supporting improved strip throughput and yield, enabling the production of thinner, high strength alloys, and other new steel products.