Thyssenkrupp Steel has awarded Primetals Technologies a contract to modernize the slab sizing press at hot-strip mill # 2 in Duisburg, Germany.
The project includes upgrading the electrical and drive systems with a new cycloconverter for the main press motor, low-voltage multi-drive converters, and DC converters for pinch rolls, gap adjustment, and roller table. Implementation and commissioning services are also included.
The upgrade follows a successful modernization at hot-strip mill # 4 and is aimed at improving equipment availability and ensuring long-term spare parts support. Startup is planned for Q3 2026.
The existing drive setup, comprising a main drive and several auxiliary drives, will retain most transformers and motors to reduce costs, while all converters will be replaced. A custom air-to-water closed-loop cooling system will be installed to boost energy efficiency, along with arc fault protection for enhanced safety.
Thyssenkrupp Steel, Germany’s largest flat steel producer with an annual output of around 11 mln tons of crude steel, is optimizing its production facilities to focus on future markets and high-margin premium products. As part of its broader investment program, the company is also advancing a major casting and hot-strip mill project in Duisburg.