An interview with Paul Riches and Michael Hagauer from Primetals Technologies in Sutton, Massachusetts
Paul Riches and Michael Hagauer are in charge of the company’s global long-rolling business at the Primetals Technologies location in Sutton, Massachusetts. Paul and Michael’s ability to complement each other’s strengths has resulted in an energizing atmosphere: the location’s workforce functions as one cohesive team whose knowledge and passion for what they do fosters innovation and success.
What are the location’s primary objectives?
Paul Riches: We are a leading supplier of high-speed process technology and equipment for producers in the long-rolling market. Our business conducted out of Sutton has two main focus strategies. The first is supplying customers with cutting-edge equipment. The second is establishing long-term partnerships by providing everything from maintenance and services to reliable spare parts. And all this to producers worldwide.
Michael Hagauer: Within Primetals Technologies, we represent the global hub for long-rolling and are proud of our large portfolio. Regarding wire-rod mills, we are the global market leader. We also offer high-speed bar, combination mills, and special bar quality mills. Our partner, Southwire, supplies aluminum and copper mills. This is an important avenue for the electrification efforts of our industry and certainly one of our growth areas. An extensive scope of metallurgical services complements our extensive projects.
Are there strong connections to other locations?
Paul Riches: The long-rolling market has been very strong in China for the past 20 years, and so we have a close relationship with Primetals Technologies China. We also work closely with the regional companies in India, the U.K., and Brazil, who help support us and our customer base.
What trends do you observe in long rolling?
Paul Riches: The latest market trend is fine-grain thermomechanical rolling. It allows customers to minimize the consumption of alloys in the steelmaking process. This aligns perfectly with our role as market leaders in specialty steel and high-productivity wire rod mills. Our success is driven by innovation and advanced processing technology.
