• Comprehensive automation revamp will broaden product offerings
• Implementation of an advanced pickling model to improve product quality
• Shadow mode ensures smooth switch-over to the new system with minimal downtime

Primetals Technologies has signed a contract to modernize the pickling line tandem cold mill (PLTCM) at KG Steel Co. in Dangjin, Republic of Korea. During the 18 month-project, the existing PLTCM facility will undergo a complete revamp.

The project includes a full upgrade of both basic and process automation systems. The current basic automation system will be replaced by the advanced SIMATIC S7-1500 platform, which offers reliable spare parts availability. The new process automation system will leverage state-of-the-art AI technologies which support the physical models, to improve target values for strip thickness and flatness. This will allow KG Steel to produce a wider range of cold-rolled products, including galvanized and tin plate, as well as pre-coated metal products under its “XTONE” brand.

Operators will also benefit from a renewed human-machine interface (HMI) that provides better guidance and situational awareness. Additionally, all servers will be virtualized, increasing resilience, speeding up recovery, and simplifying lifecycle management. Virtualization and process optimization, including an advanced pickling model, will help ensure stable, consistent product quality and efficient operations.

The switch to the new systems will be quick and seamless thanks to a “shadow mode and switch-over” setup. Primetals Technologies will connect the new system to the mill environment while the existing system is still in operation. This approach gives the commissioning team valuable production data and configuration insights before the main shutdown begins.

Once the modernization is complete, KG Steel will benefit from increased availability, minimal downtime, faster rolling processes in the entry area, which leads to higher productivity. The new setup is also future-ready, allowing for easy integration of additional digital solutions without major rework.

KG Steel Co. is a leading South Korean producer of steel and cold-rolled products, including cold-rolled and galvanized steel, XTONE, and tin plate steel.

KG Steel and Primetals Technologies’ project execution team during the basic design meeting.

Primetals Technologies, Limited, headquartered in London, United Kingdom, is a pioneer and world leader in the fields of engineering, plant building, and the provision of lifecycle services for the metals industry. The company offers a complete technology, product, and services portfolio that includes integrated electrics and automation, digitalization, and environmental solutions. This covers every step of the iron and steel production chain—from the raw materials to the finished product—and includes the latest rolling solutions for the nonferrous metals sector. Primetals Technologies is a Group Company of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, with around 7,000 employees worldwide. To learn more about Primetals Technologies, visit the company website www.primetals.com.

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