A new drive system has been installed at the SSAB Americas’ plate and steckel mill in Montpelier, Iowa. The order is valued at more than $10M and includes two Siemens Sinamics SM150 drive systems and synchronous motors to replace the existing equipment at the mill.

“In addition to replacing obsolete parts related to the cycloconverter, SSAB wanted a more reliable motor and to reduce maintenance costs associated with the existing equipment,” said John Powell, SSAB facilities engineer, electrical and utilities. “Thus, SSAB replaced the motor and drives with a Siemens solution.”

The new Siemens drive system includes innovative software tools, including remote access diagnostic features, which significantly facilitate maintenance and documentation procedures. Siemens´ local presence provides more readily available customer service, including spare parts and trained personnel. The power on the mill stands has been increased from 19 to 21MW, giving SSAB headroom to improve their rolling operations even further.

SSAB is a global producer of high strength steels with a leading market position in quenched and tempered steels. SSAB Americas is the leading supplier of heavy plate and strip products in North America and Latin America.
http://www.usa.siemens.com/metals.