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Magazine5 Min

Technology days for hot strip processing lines

Technological insights and industry exchange

On September 4th and 5th, 2025, SMS group hosted the Technology Days for Hot Strip Processing Lines in Mönchengladbach and Hilchenbach, Germany. The event brought together industry leaders and customers to explore cutting-edge technologies, innovative solutions, and sustainable production practices. The event attracted an international group of experts from more than 10 countries and 15 different companies.

Day 1: Exploring technological advancements in Mönchengladbach

The first day opened with a presentation highlighting SMS group's 25 years of expertise in pickling and galvanizing lines (PGL). Attendees gained valuable insights into innovations such as advanced pickling processes, improved galvanizing techniques, and automation solutions, all essential for achieving high-quality surface finishes and minimizing environmental impact. Following this, participants engaged in a digital classroom session featuring the X-Roll® Laser Welder. This interactive virtual 3D experience offered a comprehensive understanding of the latest advancements in laser welding technology, showcasing its capabilities and applications.
The day continued with presentations on integrated automation and digital solutions for operational intelligence, underscoring SMS group's commitment to long-term partnerships and high-quality services. These sessions demonstrated how tailored service solutions and automation technologies can optimize production processes and enhance reliability. 

During a workshop tour, attendees explored key strip processing line equipment, including the tension leveler and side trimmer. These components are critical for ensuring precise strip flatness and edge quality, enabling efficient downstream processing. The tour provided a closer look at the engineering excellence behind SMS group's equipment and its impact on production performance.

A visit to the test center offered insights into live X-Pact® Plug & Work integration tests, highlighting the latest developments in automation and practical strategies for enhancing operational efficiency.
The day concluded with an evening event, where participants had the opportunity to discuss the technologies presented, exchange ideas, and strengthen professional relationships in a relaxed and engaging atmosphere.

I was impressed by the depth of knowledge shared during the event. The focus on advanced technologies, such as the Laser Welder, and the detailed explanations of processing line equipment were invaluable. The discussions with SMS group specialists provided clarity on how to implement these solutions effectively in our operations.

Day 2: Close-up look at the production expertise in Hilchenbach

Building on the insights gained during the first day, the second day provided attendees with a hands-on experience of SMS group's innovative technologies. A live demonstration of the X-Roll® Laser Welder allowed participants to examine the machine in detail and gain insights into its capabilities firsthand. This session highlighted the welder's precision and reliability, showcasing its ability to deliver high-quality welds that meet the demands of modern processing lines.

Following the demonstration, attendees were welcomed to SMS group's extensive facilities in Hilchenbach. The guided tour offered a deeper look into the production processes behind core metallurgical and rolling mill components. This visit provided valuable insights into the scale and sophistication of SMS group's manufacturing operations, illustrating the company's dedication to innovation and engineering excellence.

Strengthening industry relationships

Throughout the two-day event, attendees gained valuable insights into SMS group's innovative technologies and tailored solutions. The combination of technical presentations, live demonstrations, and discussions with experts provided customers with actionable strategies to optimize their production processes, improve product quality, and enhance operational efficiency.

The Technology Days were a great opportunity to see the latest equipment and technologies. The presentations on automation and digital solutions were insightful, offering practical ways to improve our process, particularly for training and ramp up. Additionally, the exchange allowed us to connect with industry peers and SMS group experts in a meaningful way
We have a continuous pickling line (CPL) from SMS group. The presentations on recent improvements and environmental topics were highly valuable for me and my team. The workshop tours and 3D integration tests were amazing.

The Technology Days for Processing Lines were a great success, delivering technological insights and facilitating exchange among industry peers. SMS group extends its gratitude to all participants and looks forward to continuing to support both new and existing relationships through future events that drive innovation within the industry.

Delegates from more than 15 different companies joint the discussions from out of 10 countries including Belgium, Canada, Hungary, Netherlands, Sweden, Turkey, and USA.
During a workshop tour, an SMS designer explained key equipment, such as the side trimmer, directly at the machine and discussed operational and maintenance topics with the participants.
In the digital classroom, the group gained insights into our virtual X-Roll® Laser Welder, where operators can be trained under realistic conditions.
The participants examined the X-Roll® Laser Welder in detail and gained first-hand insights into its performance during the live demonstration.

Written by

Inga Kilders
Product Marketing

Inga Kilders

Product Marketing

+4921615792218
SMS group GmbH
Am SMS Campus 1
41069 Mönchengladbach
Germany

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