SMS group's response to the shifting global steel market
Over the past decade, the global steel market has undergone significant transformations, transitioning from mass production in the period of 2010-2015 to a more specialized production model focused on delivering quality products. This shift has empowered producers to identify and capitalize on new market niches. Throughout this period of change, the SMS group has remained proactive, continuously redefining and modernizing its machinery and process portfolio to offer state-of-the-art equipment that meets market demands. Automation has emerged as a central focus, with the group embracing Industry 4.0 principles to enhance efficiency and productivity.
SMS group innovates wire rod processing for higher efficiency and quality
The SMS group has directed its efforts across multiple fronts, with a particular emphasis on advancing technologies such as the MEERdrive® finishing blocks. These blocks play a crucial role in the rolling process, facilitating rapid production changeovers tailored to specific product families and treated steels. The introduction of the MEERdrive®PLUS high-speed finishing/sizing block represents a significant advancement, seamlessly integrated into the multiloop process. This integration includes low-temperature rolling following thermo-mechanical treatment of the wire rod, complemented by the latest Meerbox® cooling boxes designed for high-efficiency cooling with minimal water consumption.
Further enhancements have been made to cooling elements, laying heads, and the LCC® cooling conveyor system, all aimed at optimizing wire rod processing. The LCC® cooling conveyor, featuring a 3-fan 3-dimensional air-conveyor system, has become instrumental in in-line heat treatments, providing additional solutions for wire rod formation and customization of coil weight. Additionally, innovations in roll compacting and tying equipment, transitioning from hydraulic to electric systems, have been implemented to improve automation and control across various plant levels.
The SMS group's commitment to innovation is evident in the integrated CCT® 4.0 system, which combines technology, process, and automation into a single software platform. This system enables multiple types of heat treatments on wire rods, optimizing consumptions and output while minimizing manual errors associated with temperature monitoring.
Overall, these advancements underscore the SMS group's dedication to driving efficiency, quality, and sustainability across the steel manufacturing industry.
