Interview with Cav. Giovanni Arvedi, inventor of the Arvedi ESP process and founder of Acciaieria Arvedi S.p.A., Cremona, Italy by Metals Magazine editor Dr. Lawrence Gould.
What are the main challenges that your company is currently facing?
Cav. Giovanni Arvedi: In my opinion, the challenges are the situation of the European market and overall steel consumption in the E.U. We are also facing ever-increasing competition from Asian companies and the greater quantities of steel sold in Europe by Asian producers. Other challenges include the devaluation of certain currencies and the associated consequences, fluctuating exchange rates, and deteriorating economies.
How do you see the future of the steel industry in your market areas, and what factors need to be taken into consideration?
Arvedi: We expect growth in the European automotive market to increase, which is a positive sign. The future of our company is directed toward Eastern Europe and the Maghreb countries (Algeria, Libya, Mauritania, Morocco, and Tunisia).
What major activities, efforts, or investments are planned by Arvedi to meet the challenges that lie ahead?
Arvedi: We are focusing on reducing costs. We also have plans to install a new galvanizing line for the automotive market and a new painting line.
What are the main criteria that you consider when selecting a technology supplier, and which factors do you value most when dealing with business partners?
Arvedi: Reliability, overall responsibility, and the capability of a supplier to provide mechanical parts, hydraulics, electrics, and automation in a single hand. Also, a supplier must think strategically and work for the future.
Arvedi ESP technology is now accepted worldwide. What visions do you have for the future development of your process?
Arvedi: We are working to develop our technology further and implement even better solutions for the Arvedi ESP process. We have to follow the trend for higher quality and a longer lifetime of the final product.
Based on six years of operational experience with the Arvedi ESP line in Cremona, can you tell us what you consider to be the main advantages of your process compared to conventional casting and rolling plants?
Arvedi: The advantages include a reduction in costs related to energy and the transformation costs from liquid steel to the hot-rolled product. Furthermore, we produce a unique mix of products worldwide—and one that cannot be duplicated by other traditional plants.
Finally, how would you characterize your business relationship with Primetals Technologies and its former companies?
Arvedi: We have an excellent business relationship and a strong working partnership with your company. And we value the high degree of professionalism and competence of your people.
