- New automation technology will improve reliability and availability
Brazilian aluminum producer Novelis do Brazil Ltda. has commissioned Primetals Technologies to modernize the automation system installed in its hot strip mill in Pindamonhangaba in the state of São Paulo. The existing basic automation will be replaced by a new platform, and the operator control and monitoring system as well as the server systems will be modernized. This will improve the reliability and availability of the plant. The modernization work will take place during ongoing operations without the need for additional plant shutdowns, and is due for completion by mid-2017.
Novelis do Brazil Ltda. is a subsidiary of Novelis Inc., Atlanta, USA, the world leader in rolled aluminum products and aluminum recycling. Novelis Inc. has production plants in eleven countries. Novelis Pinda (Pindamonhangaba) is the largest location in South America, and specializes in producing flat products, mainly for the beverage industry. Primetals Technologies has already completed a number of projects for Novelis Pinda, including the supply and installation of electrical equipment for the TCM3 tandem cold rolling mill and installation of a new TCS (Technological Control System) on a single-stand cold rolling mill.
Primetals Technologies supplied the initial equipment for the hot strip mill in 1997. Under the current project the previously deployed basic automation system will be replaced by Simatic TDC, the WinCC operator control and monitoring system will be upgraded and the server systems modernized. This includes, for example, virtualized systems and highly available storage media, which will also prepare the system for future modernization measures.
The upgrade concept will be implemented in clearly defined stages during ongoing operations, during the scheduled weekly repair shifts and the annual scheduled plant shutdown. This will avoid production losses and ensure maintenance of the quantity and quality of production throughout the entire modernization project. Primetals Technologies has already successfully put this concept into practice in a multi-stand hot aluminum rolling mill in Europe.
Primetals Technologies to Modernize Automation System in Novelis Pinda Aluminum Hot Strip Mill
Primetals Technologies, Limited, headquartered in London, United Kingdom, is a pioneer and world leader in the fields of engineering, plant building, and the provision of lifecycle services for the metals industry. The company offers a complete technology, product, and services portfolio that includes integrated electrics and automation, digitalization, and environmental solutions. This covers every step of the iron and steel production chain—from the raw materials to the finished product—and includes the latest rolling solutions for the nonferrous metals sector. Primetals Technologies is a Group Company of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, with around 7,000 employees worldwide. To learn more about Primetals Technologies, visit the company website www.primetals.com.
