• Segments to be upgraded with more robust, durable caster frames
• Frames feature dynamic soft-core reduction capability for improved internal product quality
• Comprehensive maintenance services help extend equipment life

Nucor Steel Decatur, one of U.S. based steel producer Nucor Corporation's primary flat-rolled sheet steel manufacturing divisions, has selected Primetals Technologies for a comprehensive upgrade to its continuous thin-slab caster at the Decatur, Alabama plant.

The goal of the caster project is to upgrade the segments with wider, more robust frames with improved spray patterns while meeting current quality and production targets. The upgrade will also enable Nucor Steel Decatur to implement dynamic soft-core reduction in the future, improving internal product quality.

This caster will be the first Primetals Technologies designed continuous thin-slab caster in Nucor Corporation, and it will be completely manufactured, assembled, tested, and commissioned in the state of Alabama, USA. Over the course of the next three years, Primetals Technologies will supply Nucor Decatur with benders, and segments along with the accompanying spare inventory of rollers, hydraulic cylinders, and spray nozzles necessary for successful production.

Primetals Technologies will also provide the full spectrum of engineering services for machine design, including engineering analyses for the frames, roller assemblies, support structures, and secondary cooling. Two new strand checkers and a lifting device are also part of the supply. Furthermore, Primetals Technologies will continue its’ comprehensive maintenance service contract ensuring highest performance and lifetime of the equipment.

With the caster upgrade, Nucor Steel Decatur is going from a two-roller to a three-roller design, resulting in 50 percent more bearing capacity and a more durable setup. In addition, the frames will be manufactured out of marine grade material, improving corrosion resistance and longevity.

Nucor Steel Decatur LLC is a sheet mill that produces hot-rolled, pickled, cold-rolled, galvanized and galvannealed carbon sheet steel for a wide range of demanding applications. Nucor’s operations in Decatur, Alabama underscore the company’s long-term investment in the state of Alabama, where it produces more than 3 million tons of sheet steel annually that supports critical infrastructure, energy, transportation, and construction projects across the United States.

Representatives from Primetals Technologies and Nucor Decatur, from left to right: Jeremy Floyd, Senior Engineer at Primetals Technologies USA; Adam Horrex, Melt Shop Manager; Mike Jacques, Senior Business Sub-Segment Manager; JD Melton, Maintenance & Engineering Manager; Matt Brooks, General Manager — all with Nucor Decatur — and Mark Corzine, Director of Metallurgical Services at Primetals Technologies USA.

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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