SMS group has completed an automation system upgrade on the heavy plate mill at Jingye Steel. The upgrade on the five-metre mill took eight days to complete and was able to fit into its annual maintenance schedule.
Part of the upgrades included SMS bringing the X-Pact ProBAS level 1 automation system up to the latest state, for the roughing mill, finishing mill, and hot plate level. It is hoped this will aid in substantially improving system reliability and maintenance efficiency.
Furthermore, the new automation system was raised to a new technological level with X-Pact Embedded controllers and a high-speed EtherCAT I/O system, which will allow for improved communication and data handling. During the project, the safety modules were also replaced with the latest models to improve operational safety.
Wang Hailong, plant director at Jingye Steel, said: “We were supported in this automation project by an excellent team from the SMS automation, digital and service Solutions unit, who worked diligently and efficiently in such a short time to ensure a successful outcome.”
The upgrades also incorporated a future-oriented open hardware and system platform, meaning the platform is not locked to a single vendor or protocol. This approach will allow for greater flexibility for later expansion and integration projects.
Vice president of automation, digital and service solutions at SMS group in China, Christopher Stappenbeck, said: “SMS designs and builds plate mills for the long run. Our goal is to maintain and expand the performance of our customers’ plants throughout their entire lifecycle.
“[…] Through modernisation and service, SMS can ensure that the plants remain up to date, enabling plant owners to achieve a broader portfolio and higher production levels.”
The mill is in Yingkou, Liaoning Province, China, and was originally installed by SMS group in 2009. It is designed for an annual output of 2.3 Mt, and its portfolio includes steels for pipelines, pressure vessels and boilers.
