Primetals Technologies to Upgrade Automation at Xiangtan Iron and Steel’s Heavy Plate Mill

• Modernized automation system to improve operational stability and process control

• Integration of new Contour and Flatness Optimizer delivers superior plate flatness and thickness accuracy
• State-of-the-art automation ensures maximum availability and long-term reliability of the mill

Xiangtan Iron and Steel Co., Ltd., part of the Hunan Valin Group, has selected Primetals Technologies to upgrade important parts of the thickness control and process automation systems at its heavy plate mill in Xiangtan, Hunan Province, China. The project aims to significantly enhance plate flatness, thickness accuracy, and overall product consistency through the introduction of advanced automation solutions.

The scope of supply includes a comprehensive upgrade of the process automation system, covering both hardware and software components, as well as the implementation of the Contour and Flatness Optimizer and basic automation controls for newly installed work roll bending. Together, these innovations will optimize process control and production stability, particularly during thin-gauge rolling.

Improved Product Quality and Flexibility

The Contour and Flatness Optimizer provides real-time adaptive control of rolling parameters, ensuring superior plate flatness and contour accuracy. This advanced model allows the mill to maintain consistent product quality and increase yield. When combined with the new work roll bending control, the system offers enhanced shape-control flexibility, particularly for challenging thin-gauge applications.

By replacing obsolete systems and upgrading to the latest process automation platform, Xiangtan will eliminate the risks associated with outdated components and unavailable spare parts. The modernization will increase system reliability, simplify maintenance, and improve long-term operational performance.

Strengthening a Trusted Partnership

This order reflects Xiangtan’s continued confidence in Primetals Technologies’ technical expertise and proven execution. The successful completion of previous modernization projects at Xiangtan’s heavy plate mills has demonstrated measurable improvements in production performance and quality, laying a strong foundation for ongoing collaboration. A recent project involving an upgrade of a Multi‑Purpose Interrupted Cooling (MULPIC) line further illustrates the close partnership between the two companies.

Founded in 1958, Xiangtan Iron and Steel Co., Ltd. is a core enterprise of the Hunan Valin Group. Located in Xiangtan, Hunan Province, the company has an annual production capacity of approximately 12 million tons of steel, spanning the entire process from ironmaking to rolling. Xiangtan operates the world’s largest production base for wide and heavy plates, leading global output with five million tons per year.