New continuous galvanizing line and color coating line
In mid 2024, SMS group and Steel Dynamics (SDI) celebrated the first coils of two new production lines at the SDI facility in Heartland, Indiana. The addition of the Continuous Galvanizing Line (CGL) and Color Coating Line (CCL) is part of SDI's strategy to increase production capabilities to meet the rising demand for coated steel products.
Integrated solutions for process automation
The implementation of SMS group's X-Pact® automation solutions at Heartland ensures integrated operation of the new lines. The modular software architecture, covering Level 1 and Level 2, supports stable real-time performance. Enhanced diagnostic features, including faceplates and pop-ups, facilitate rapid system responses, detailed process analysis, high availability, and efficient troubleshooting, ensuring consistent production performance.
The rapid commissioning of the lines was achieved through digital commissioning, thoroughly tested during the X-Pact® Plug & Work integration phase before on-site implementation.
These new production lines at Heartland enhance SDI's production capacity, reflecting the effective collaboration between SDI and SMS group.
Main data
Continuous galvanizing line (CGL):
- Capacity: 278,000 t/year
- Technologies: Drever horizontal furnace, DUMA-BANDZINK air-knife system
- Capabilities: Production of galvanized steel sheets, including Al-Si coated steel
- Applications: Primarily for the construction industry and white goods
- Specifications: Maximum strip width of 1,830 mm at a process speed of 198 m/min
Color Coating Line (CCL):
- Capacity: 240,000 t/year
- Product range: Coated cold-rolled and galvanized steel strips
- Specifications: Strip width up to 1,830 mm at 183 m/min