Primetals Technologies has secured an order to modernize Baosteel’s Pickling Line and Tandem Cold Mill (PLTCM) at its Baoshan plant in Shanghai, China. The project includes upgrading electrics and automation systems, such as Level 1 automation, measuring equipment, digital assistant systems, motors, and drives. A key highlight is the installation of a Central Operation Cockpit (COC), providing a comprehensive, real-time overview of the entire production line.
Originally built in 1998 for tinplate production, the PLTCM upgrade will enhance efficiency and competitiveness. Alongside automation upgrades, the project includes new measurement systems and customer-supplied mechanical equipment for the entry section, welding machine, scale breaker, pickling tanks, side trimmer, and work-roll drive trains for stands 4 and 5. The modernization is expected to be completed in Q1 2026.
The innovative COC system allows a single operator to manage multiple plant sections, minimizing manual intervention and boosting productivity. At Baoshan, the COC will utilize 63 live cameras, including three with integrated fire detection, and incorporate digital systems such as automated coil identification, strip position tracking, and side trimming scrap detection.
As part of the China Baowu Steel Group, Baosteel is the world’s largest steel producer, with plants in Shanghai, Wuhan, Meishan, and Zhanjiang. Its extensive product range includes carbon, low-alloy, alloyed, and silicon steel grades for diverse applications.
