The World's Largest Endless Strip Production-Complex at Rizhao Steel in Rizhao, China

The steel industry faces constant pressure to innovate and reduce environmental impact while maintaining high production efficiency. Rizhao Steel, aiming to enhance its competitive edge both domestically and internationally, sought to address these challenges by adopting the Arvedi Endless Strip Production (ESP) technology. The primary goals were to reduce energy consumption, minimize CO₂ emissions, and produce ultra-thin gauges at maximum width with full productivity. Additionally, Rizhao Steel needed to ensure the integration of advanced automation systems to optimize production processes and maintain product quality.

The partnership between Primetals Technologies and Rizhao Steel has led to the installation of five Arvedi Endless Strip Production (ESP) lines, specifically tailored to meet the demands of Rizhao Steel's production goals. This ESP complex consists of five lines with a combined capacity of nearly 12 Mtpy. Three ESP production lines with a width of 1,600 mm, generating 2.55 Mtpy each, and two 1,300 mm wide lines, each producing 2 Mtpy. The ESP lines at Rizhao Steel are capable of producing strips with thicknesses ranging from 0.6 to 6 millimeters, with widths up to 1,600 millimeters.

The ESP lines feature a compact design with a total length of just 180 meters, significantly reducing space requirements compared to conventional mills. This compact layout facilitates easier integration into existing facilities and reduces construction costs, making it a cost-effective solution for Rizhao Steel. Additionally, the ESP process at Rizhao Steel is highly energy-efficient, reducing energy consumption by up to 45% compared to traditional methods, which translates into lower operational costs and a substantial reduction in CO₂ emissions.

The technological advancements of the ESP lines include integrated basic (level 1) and process (level 2) automation systems, ensuring a finely tuned interaction between the casting and rolling processes. These systems facilitate real-time monitoring and adjustment, optimizing production efficiency and maintaining high product quality. The automation package includes technological systems and process controls that are specifically designed to meet the production needs of Rizhao Steel.

Furthermore, the ESP lines at Rizhao Steel are equipped with Through-Process Optimization (TPO) solutions and Industry 4.0 technologies. These advanced systems provide comprehensive quality control and process management, recording all process parameters and production data from the liquid phase to the final processing lines. The TPO system enhances product quality by continuously monitoring and managing production variables, ensuring that Rizhao Steel can meet the stringent demands of both domestic and international markets.

The implementation of the Arvedi ESP technology has enabled Rizhao Steel to expand its product portfolio, including high-strength, low-alloyed (HSLA) grades and dual-phase steels. This diversification allows Rizhao Steel to cater to the growing demand for high-quality, thin-gauge strip products, positioning the company as a leader in steel production innovation. The ESP lines have also achieved a world record by producing ultra-thin hot strip with a thickness of just 0.6 millimeters.

Overall, the installation of Arvedi ESP lines at Rizhao Steel represents a strategic advancement in steel production technology, offering significant benefits in terms of energy efficiency, environmental impact, and product quality. This solution not only enhances Rizhao Steel's competitive edge but also sets a new standard for steel production worldwide.