Compact Mill for Flat Products

Recent emphasis on electric arc furnace-based meltshops parallels a greater focus on increasing efficiency and productivity while lessening the steel industry's overall environmental impact. Applying the “mini-mill” concept typically associated with long-rolled products, Primetals Technologies developed the compact mill for flat products. Compact mills respond to today's dynamic steel market as the efficient and environmentally friendly alternative to integrated steelworks. These electric arc furnace-based plants combine with Arvedi ESP to deliver unparalleled efficiency, strengthened through process expertise and advanced automation solutions.

A typical production line in a compact mill for flat products includes an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF), such as the EAF Ultimate or EAF Quantum, a ladle furnace, and Arvedi Endless Strip Production (ESP)—a high-speed casting and direct rolling line. Additional environmental solutions, including a water treatment plant, a dedusting system, and utility systems, enhance this setup, capitalizing on the diverse platform and through-process expertise of Primetals Technologies.

The success of compact mills for flat products rests on the combination of highly efficient electric arc furnaces and the rapid production capabilities of the Arvedi ESP. Depending on customer requirements and product mixes, specialists at Primetals Technologies advise the high-powered EAF Ultimate or the highly efficient scrap-preheating EAF Quantum to handle steel production and melting. Depending on the charge mixed into the electric arc furnace, liquid steel production with reduced environmental impact is possible via increased scrap rates and the availability of renewable energy sources. Following the ladle furnace, the Arvedi ESP rapidly produces coils, known as the endless hot-rolled coil, renowned for their surface quality and yield, with applications ranging from automotive and appliances to pipe and heavy machinery.

Born from the “minimill for long products” concept, the compact mill for flat products is transformative for steel plants. It provides a comprehensive solution to producers worldwide that enhances efficiency, reduces costs, and supports sustainable practices.

Benefits of the Compact Mill

• Advanced automation: automation packages and suites for the entire mill enhance operational reliability and optimize production from the meltshop to finished products
• Rapid production: produce high-quality finished products in two hours, significantly boosting efficiency and throughput
• High efficiency: electric arc furnace-based steel plants offer a superior alternative to conventional methods, enhancing productivity and reducing energy consumption.
• Cost-effective: optimized layout and process integration lead to substantial operational cost savings, making it an economically viable solution.
• Sustainability: energy-efficient and integrated with environmental systems, such as water treatment and dedusting, the compact mill effectively maintains yield and ensures ecological compliance.
• Global support: access to a worldwide team of specialists guarantees continuous support and training and minimizes downtime, enhancing operational reliability.