Orrcon Steel, part of BlueScope Steel, is enhancing production performance at its Unanderra facility through a fully automated OTO tube mill supplied by Fives. The advanced line supports increased output of high-quality structural tubes for construction and infrastructure applications, contributing to Australia’s energy transition and development projects.
The turnkey mill integrates automation across the entire process, from coil loading to final packaging. Key features include an automated loading carriage with burr rotation to improve productivity and operator safety, a high-speed shear welder, precision cut-off equipment, and a robotic packaging system.
Designed to produce structural hollow sections of up to 10 inches in diameter and wall thicknesses of up to 10 mm, the line operates at speeds of up to 80 metres per minute.
Production is further optimized through OTO-i, a modular digital platform that enhances process control and provides real-time operational feedback. The system also enables advanced robotic packaging, where three robotic arms automatically arrange tubes into square, rectangular, or hexagonal bundles for dispatch.
In addition to improving efficiency, the automation reduces manual handling, enhances safety, ensures consistent bundle formation, and lowers noise levels.
Founded in 2000 and wholly owned by BlueScope Steel since 2014, Orrcon Steel manufactures and distributes ERW structural steel, precision tube, and hot-dip galvanized products through facilities and distribution centres across Australia.
