News & Press Releases
London, August 21, 2025
Shandong Zhongxin Orders Coupled Pickling Line and Tandem Cold Mill from Primetals Technologies
- New line features advanced automation, digitalization, and energy-efficient technology to enhance productivity and product quality
- Allows Zhongxin to expand into high-value steel markets
- Startup scheduled for early 2027
Chinese steel producer Shandong Zhongxin has ordered a coupled pickling line and tandem cold mill (PLTCM) from Primetals Technologies for its plant located in Lin Yi, Shandong province. The new line will enable Shandong Zhongxin to accelerate the development and production of high-quality, high-value-added products, expanding into the home appliances and automotive steel markets in eastern China – the country’s largest steel-producing region. Startup is scheduled for early 2027.
Energy-Saving and Highly Efficient Technology
Primetals Technologies will supply the complete PLTCM line, including mechanical and electrical design, site services, equipment supply, and complete Level 1 and 2 automation systems with comprehensive digitalization solutions.
The pickling line will feature the energy-saving and highly efficient iBox pickling system, which increases capacity without the circulation pumps required in conventional jet pickling tanks. The line will also include a 5-stand, 6-high Universal Crown-Control Mill (UCM), ensuring high productivity, enhanced strip flatness, and precise gauge control.
Advanced Digitalization and Automation
State-of-the-art digital solutions will boost productivity and reliability across the PLTCM line. AI-driven process optimization and sophisticated automation systems will improve strip flatness and thickness control. The Central Operation Cockpit (COC) and computer-vision-based digital assistants will allow a single operator to oversee multiple plant sections, reducing manual intervention and improving operational efficiency.
The Through-Process Quality Control (TPQC) system will collect and store all quality-related data for long-term analysis and continuous improvement. In addition, the Asset Life Expert (ALEX) condition monitoring system from Primetals Technologies will support safe, efficient plant operations and help maximize productivity.
About Shandong Zhongxin
Founded in 2025, Shandong Zhongxin is a wholly owned subsidiary of Yongfeng Group, which was established in 2002. Yongfeng Group operates across multiple industries, including steelmaking, real estate, municipal services, financial investment, trade logistics, transportation, and education. Over the years, the group has developed into a modern, large-scale enterprise.
Pickling line and tandem cold mill (PLTCM) from Primetals Technologies.
Primetals Technologies, Limited, headquartered in London, United Kingdom, is a pioneer and world leader in the fields of engineering, plant building, and the provision of lifecycle services for the metals industry. The company offers a complete technology, product, and services portfolio that includes integrated electrics and automation, digitalization, and environmental solutions. This covers every step of the iron and steel production chain—from the raw materials to the finished product—and includes the latest rolling solutions for the nonferrous metals sector. Primetals Technologies is a Group Company of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, with around 7,000 employees worldwide. To learn more about Primetals Technologies, visit the company website www.primetals.com.
