Brazilian steel producer Usiminas has recently granted the provisional acceptance certificate (PAC) to Primetals Technologies for the modernization of Usiminas’ welding machine at a steel plant in the city of Ipatinga, located in the south-eastern part of Brazil. A part of the recoiling line, the welding machine at the steel plant in Ipatinga ensures that the strip is straightened according to the desired quality levels before being sent off to customers.
Thanks to the new solution, the availability and operational functionality of the welding machine has been improved. In addition, the position of the controller has been modified so that maintenance work is easier to execute. The new system uses state-of-the-art software, like the TIA portal, which now makes it possible for Usiminas to process new types of materials.
The scope of supply comprises engineering and implementation of a new network system including new human-machine interface (HMI) and control systems. The key functions of the new solution include a thyristor bridge control system, a technology package for the welding current control system, an electric drive for the welding carriage, and a valve amplifier for controlling pressure and positioning of hydraulic and servo valves.
Primetals Technologies and Usiminas have recently partnered in several modernization projects, among them a new Level 2 automation system for slab caster No. 2 at the Ipatinga plant, an upgrade of the main drives of the tandem cold mill, and a modernization of the entry section drives for the pickling line and tandem cold mill (PLTCM). Positive experiences from these projects along with Primetals Technologies’ extensive expertise in the field of drives systems contributed to Usiminas choice of supplier for the most recent modernization project at the steel plant in Ipatinga.
Founded in 1956, Usiminas produces thick plates, hot strip, as well as cold rolled, electrogalvanized, and hot dip galvanized steel.