• Upgrade of power and electrical system with new cycloconverter and low-voltage drives
• Increased availability and future-proofed spare parts supply
• Tailormade cooling solution enhances safety for personnel and equipment

thyssenkrupp Steel has awarded Primetals Technologies a contract to modernize the slab sizing press at  hot-strip mill No. 2 in Duisburg, Germany. The project includes a comprehensive upgrade of the electrical and drive systems, featuring a new cycloconverter for the main press motor, low-voltage multi-drive converters, and DC converters for the pinch rolls, gap adjustment, and roller table. Implementation and startup services are also part of the scope. 

Increased Availability and Long-Term Reliability

This order follows a successful upgrade by Primetals Technologies at hot-strip mill No. 4 in Duisburg. The modernization will ensure increased equipment availability and secure a future-proofed supply of spare parts. Startup is scheduled for the third quarter of 2026.

The drive system of thyssenkrupp Steel’s slab sizing press is divided into two groups: a main drive powered by a cycloconverter, and several supporting drives for the pinch rolls, gap adjustment, and roller table. All converter technologies for these drives will be renewed while most existing transformers and motors will be retained, significantly reducing capital expenditure. 

Enhanced Safety and Energy Efficiency

Primetals Technologies will also design a tailormade cooling solution for the drive room. Based on a closed-loop air-to-water system at the drive cabinets, this setup provides efficient cooling and improves overall energy efficiency. An arc fault protection system will be installed to quickly extinguish arc flashes, enhancing safety for both personnel and equipment.

Focus on Profitable Premium Products 

thyssenkrupp Steel employs 27,000 people worldwide and produces around 11 million tons of crude steel, making it Germany’s largest flat steel producer. The company is currently optimizing its production facilities in order to focus the product portfolio on future markets and profitable premium products. This includes multiphase and lightweight steel, as well as grades with high surface quality. Additionally, thyssenkrupp Steel plans to reinforce the production of high-quality electrical steel grades. As part of thyssenkrupp’s major investment program, Primetals Technologies is also delivering a large casting and hot-strip mill project in Duisburg.
 

thyssenkrupp Steel has ordered a slab sizing press modernization from Primetals Technologies. The upgrade will ensure increased availability.