Introduction: G Steel, a leading Thai producer of hot-rolled coils and a subsidiary of Nippon Steel Corporation, has announced plans to expand its production capacity by adding cold rolling capabilities to its Rayong industrial plant in eastern Thailand. The company has placed an order with Danieli, a global leader in steel manufacturing technologies, for a new four-high skinpass mill. This will allow G Steel to enhance the quality of the hot-rolled strip produced at its facility and increase the value-added products sold to local industries.
This strategic move marks a significant upgrade in G Steel's operations, enabling them to meet rising demand for high-quality, rolled steel products. The new mill, designed to process up to 720,000 metric tons per year of hot-rolled strip, is set to begin operations in April 2026. The installation of the skinpass mill is part of G Steel's broader strategy to improve its product quality and strengthen its position in the competitive Southeast Asian market.
Why a Skinpass Mill?
A skinpass mill is an essential component in the cold rolling process, used primarily to improve the surface finish and dimensional accuracy of rolled steel products. Skinpassing involves running a strip of steel through a set of rollers to remove surface imperfections and provide a smoother, more uniform finish. For G Steel, this investment in a skinpass mill will enhance the quality of the final strip, ensuring it meets the stringent requirements of local industries, such as automotive, construction, and appliance manufacturing.
The four-high configuration of the mill, which will feature advanced technology for high-precision control, will allow for better flatness and uniformity in the final product. This is achieved through HAGC, Hydraulic Automatic Gap Control, cylinders and E-Type bending blocks, both of which are crucial for precise gap adjustments and optimal flatness control. These features will ensure that G Steel’s finished products have the required quality standards for high-demand applications.
Technological Advancements:
The new skinpass mill will be equipped with state-of-the-art technological equipment that ensures high accuracy and consistent results. The inclusion of HAGC cylinders will enable precise control over the gap between rollers, a critical factor in ensuring uniform thickness throughout the strip. The E-Type bending blocks will further improve flatness control, ensuring the final strip has the desired surface characteristics and is free from defects that could impact its application in various industries.
Additionally, the mill will be integrated with advanced automation controls and electrical systems, further enhancing its operational efficiency. The turnkey solution provided by Danieli will encompass all these elements, from the physical equipment to the automation and electrical components, ensuring a seamless integration into G Steel’s existing operations.
Regional Impact and Market Focus:
The majority of the skinpassed strip produced at G Steel’s new mill will be sold domestically, meeting the growing demand for high-quality rolled steel products in Thailand and the broader Southeast Asian market. This strategic move will not only enhance G Steel’s market presence but also support the growth of local industries that rely on high-grade steel for manufacturing various products.
Southeast Asia, with its robust industrial base and expanding manufacturing sector, represents a key market for steel producers. By investing in a skinpass mill, G Steel aims to differentiate itself in this competitive region by offering superior-quality steel products, positioning itself as a leader in the production of rolled strip for local industries.
Expansion and Future Growth:
G Steel’s new investment is part of a broader trend in Southeast Asia, where steel producers are increasingly focusing on improving product quality and adding value to their offerings. Two other skinpass mills are currently under construction in the region, reflecting the growing demand for advanced steel processing technologies.
By adopting Danieli’s cutting-edge technology, G Steel is not only expanding its production capabilities but also enhancing its ability to meet the high demands of industries that require precision-engineered steel. The new mill will give G Steel a competitive edge in the marketplace by enabling it to provide consistent, high-quality products that are tailored to the needs of local manufacturers.
Danieli’s Role as a Technological Leader:
Danieli, a well-respected global supplier of equipment and technology to the metals industry, is known for its innovative solutions in steel manufacturing. The company’s expertise in rolling mill technology and its ability to deliver comprehensive turnkey projects make it a trusted partner for companies like G Steel that are looking to modernize their facilities and increase production efficiency.
For Danieli, the project with G Steel is another testament to its leadership in the steel manufacturing sector. The company’s advanced solutions are designed to address the evolving needs of the industry, from enhancing product quality to improving operational efficiency. With over a century of experience, Danieli continues to innovate and lead the way in providing high-performance, energy-efficient technologies for the global metals market.
Key Takeaways:
• G-Steel's New Investment: G Steel, part of Nippon Steel Corporation, has ordered a new four-high skinpass mill from Danieli to enhance its cold rolling capabilities at its Rayong facility in Thailand.
• Increased Production Capacity: The mill will enable G Steel to process up to 720,000 metric tons per year of hot-rolled strip, improving the quality of its products and meeting local market demand.
• Technological Features: The skinpass mill will feature advanced HAGC cylinders and E-Type bending blocks for precise gap adjustments and optimal flatness control.
• Focus on Local Markets: Most of the skinpassed strip will be sold within Thailand and other Southeast Asian countries, supporting local industries such as automotive and construction.
• Regional Expansion: G Steel's investment reflects a broader trend in Southeast Asia, where steel producers are increasingly focused on enhancing product quality with advanced manufacturing technologies.
• Turnkey Solution by Danieli: Danieli is providing a comprehensive turnkey supply, including automation controls and electrical components, ensuring a seamless integration of the mill into G Steel's existing operations.
• Danieli's Industry Leadership: Danieli continues to lead the steel manufacturing sector with cutting-edge technologies and innovations, strengthening its position as a key supplier to the global metals industry.
