• Primetals Technologies upgrades basic automation system at hot-rolling mill, ensuring increased mill availability 
• Step-by-step implementation during scheduled maintenance periods, which allowed ongoing production without interruptions

Recently, ArcelorMittal successfully produced the first coil after upgrading the automation solution at its hot-rolling mill in Eisenhüttenstadt, Germany. This mill is the first to be fully equipped with Primetals Technologies' latest state-of-the-art automation platform. 

Primetals Technologies supplied and implemented the new basic automation system. The implementation was carried out in two steps for the finishing mill and coiler area, and the roughing mill, respectively. With the new automation equipment and software, operators at the hot-rolling mill now benefit from higher availability.

Close Collaboration

Experts from ArcelorMittal and Primetals Technologies collaborated closely and effectively while executing the implementation, testing, and commissioning work during scheduled maintenance periods. In this way, ArcelorMittal could maintain ongoing production without additional interruptions. The startup exceeded ArcelorMittal’s expectations in terms of swiftness and efficiency, with production ramping up to full capacity quickly, resulting in higher productivity compared to the usual outcome of similar projects.

Short Implementation Phase

During the migration, Primetals Technologies preserved core functions, allowing operators and maintenance staff to immediately navigate the software with ease. The new solutions for the rolling mill were migrated step-by-step to the new state-of-the-art automation platform, the most modern of its kind.

The automation devices were mainly installed in the former system’s control cabinets, resulting in a short and swift implementation period. Joint preparations and top-level performance of the automation platform were key factors in bringing the plant back to normal production in a short time. 

ArcelorMittal Eisenhüttenstadt is an integrated steel plant with facilities covering the full value chain, from ironmaking over steelmaking to hot-rolling and cold-rolling. Founded in 1950, it produces flat steel for the automotive, home appliances, and enameling industries. 
 

ArcelorMittal produces the first coil at the hot-rolling mill in Eisenhüttenstadt after an automation upgrade from Primetals Technologies.