Modernization of Hot-Dip Galvanizing Lines at voestalpine Linz, Austria

The modernization project at voestalpine's Linz plant was undertaken to increase production capacity and bring the plant up to the latest industry standards. Hot-dip galvanizing line No. 3 required an upgrade due to aging drive controls and automation systems, which provided an opportunity to integrate modern technologies and improve operational reliability. This included addressing the availability of spare parts and ensuring that the line remained efficient and safe.

For line No. 4, voestalpine's goal was to expand production capacity to meet the growing demand for advanced steel grades, particularly ultra-high-strength steels. This required upgrading the existing systems to support higher electrical loads and new processing requirements.

The entire upgrade and rebuild of the two hot-dip galvanizing lines had to be accomplished during planned shutdowns of only a few days.

Primetals Technologies developed a detailed modernization plan for voestalpine's hot-dip galvanizing lines that was executed during the short shutdowns. These "pit stops" required meticulous preparation and perfect coordination of all staff involved to ensure minimal disruption to plant operations. As far as possible, technical problems were identified and avoided in advance.

For hot-dip galvanizing line No. 3, Primetals Technologies installed more than 300 modernized drive feeds, replacing the outdated drive controls and providing improved control and efficiency. The automation systems were upgraded with state-of-the-art CPUs to improve processing capabilities, including faster and more reliable fieldbus systems. In addition, the safety system was upgraded and integrated with the control system, replacing the traditional hardwired solution and improving both safety and operational reliability.

For hot-dip galvanizing line No. 4, Primetals Technologies adapted and expanded the existing electrical, drive, and automation systems. The electrical power infeed was increased from 25 MVA to 50 MVA, and as part of the contract, Primetals Technologies also assembled the components provided. New transformers were installed, and the low-voltage cabling was modified accordingly. In the cold strip bypass, the new snout was installed, and first tests were successfully carried out. The new side trimming unit was installed and commissioned during the line shutdown in December 2023. In parallel, several modifications were carried out in preparation for the installation of the inductors.

Key success factors for the execution of this project were the Primetals Technologies project team, which was equipped with the right process know-how, system know-how, assembly expertise, as well as flexibility, efficiency, and adherence to schedules.

The modernization of the hot-dip galvanizing lines at voestalpine's Linz plant builds on a long-standing partnership between voestalpine and Primetals Technologies, leveraging decades of cooperation in the improvement of strip processing lines.