Angang Ltd. Transforms Steel Production with Cutting-Edge Plate Mill Modernization
Angang Ltd., one of China’s largest state-owned steel producers, has taken a major step in enhancing its steel manufacturing capabilities with the modernization of its 3.8-meter plate mill in Bayuquan, Liaoning Province. The final acceptance certificate (FAC) was awarded by Angang to Primetals Technologies, a global leader in steel plant solutions, marking the completion of a comprehensive automation upgrade that will enable Angang to expand its product portfolio and significantly improve steel production processes.
This modernization project includes the implementation of a full Level 1 & 2 automation system, integrating cutting-edge technologies such as process camera systems, advanced human-machine interfaces (HMI), and state-of-the-art process models. These innovations are designed to enhance the flatness, profile quality, and precision of the steel plates produced at the mill, enabling Angang to manufacture thinner plates with improved surface quality and dimensional accuracy.
Automation Systems: Revolutionizing Plate Mill Operations
The core of the modernization lies in the implementation of Level 1 & 2 automation systems that enable seamless control and monitoring of the plate mill’s production process. These systems integrate real-time data collection, process optimization algorithms, and automated control to ensure a consistent, high-quality output. By using advanced process cameras and HMI technologies, the mill operators are equipped with detailed, actionable insights into the production process, allowing them to make informed decisions and adjustments as needed.
The process camera system captures high-resolution images of the steel plates during the rolling process, identifying any deviations from set quality parameters. The integration of this visual data with the HMI allows operators to monitor the process more effectively and ensures that quality standards are met consistently throughout production.
Enhancing Steel Plate Production with Precision Rolling
One of the major benefits of the new automation system is its ability to support the production of thinner steel plates with improved flatness and profile quality. Using advanced process models, Angang is now capable of rolling plates as thin as 5 millimeters with increased precision, which is critical for the manufacture of high-performance steel used in industries such as subsea pipeline construction.
The process models deployed in the mill enable better control over the rolling parameters, including temperature, pressure, and material flow, which are crucial for ensuring optimal steel quality. With these advancements, Angang Ltd. can produce specialty steel products with highly refined surface finishes, meeting the demanding standards of industries that require high-quality materials for subsea pipelines, shipbuilding, and industrial machinery.
Expanding Angang’s Product Portfolio: High-Value Steel Production
Thanks to the modernization, Angang Ltd. now has the ability to produce X60MO subsea pipeline steel, a type of high-performance steel used in offshore oil and gas drilling. This type of steel is subject to stringent quality requirements for both shape and surface quality. The newly implemented process models and automation systems provide the precision needed to meet these standards, positioning Angang as a leading supplier of high-performance steel in the global market.
The production of thinner steel plates, especially down to 5 millimeters, is another key advantage of the modernization. These thinner plates are used in applications where strength and light weight are critical, such as in automotive manufacturing, aerospace, and high-performance machinery.
In addition to subsea pipeline steel, Angang plans to expand its product portfolio further, offering more specialized steel grades and meeting the growing global demand for high-value-added products.
A Proven Partnership: Primetals Technologies’ Ongoing Success with Angang
The successful upgrade of Angang’s plate mill builds on the longstanding partnership between Primetals Technologies and Angang Ltd. Over the years, the two companies have collaborated on a number of modernization projects, including upgrades to a 4.3-meter plate mill and a 5-meter plate mill. These earlier projects have established a proven track record of success, making Primetals Technologies the preferred supplier for Angang’s modernization needs.
This continued partnership has allowed Primetals to develop tailored solutions that meet Angang’s specific production requirements. By combining innovative automation technology with years of industry experience, Primetals Technologies has helped Angang improve its operational efficiency and expand its steel product offerings to meet evolving market demands.
Angang’s Growing Influence in the Global Steel Market
Angang Ltd., part of the Anshan Iron & Steel Group (commonly known as Ansteel), is one of China’s leading steel producers. With an impressive annual production capacity of 39 million metric tons of raw steel, Angang plays a crucial role in both the domestic and global steel markets. The company specializes in the production of a wide range of steel products, including rail, ship plates, and high-performance special steel.
Following the successful modernization of its plate mill, Angang is now well-positioned to increase its output of specialty steels, catering to industries that require superior strength and precision. The company is also poised to increase its share of the high-value steel market, further cementing its role as one of China’s largest and most innovative steel producers.
Key Takeaways:
• Angang Ltd. successfully modernized its 3.8-meter plate mill in Bayuquan, China, with Primetals Technologies.
• The Level 1 & 2 automation systems and advanced process camera systems enable increased precision and quality in steel production.
• The upgrade supports the production of X60MO subsea pipeline steel and thinner steel plates down to 5 millimeters.
• Angang plans to expand its product portfolio, increasing the proportion of high-value-added products in its offering.
• The partnership with Primetals Technologies builds on successful previous modernization projects, including upgrades to 4.3-meter and 5-meter plate mills.
• Angang Ltd., part of Ansteel, has an annual raw steel production capacity of 39 million metric tons and is one of China’s leading steel producers.
