The modernization of the cooling system provides Baowu with the following advantages:

• Expanded product portfolio: Development of new steel grades with optimized and precisely controlled cooling rates.
• Enhanced product quality: Better control of the cooling process results in improved mechanical properties and surface quality of the steel plates.
• Improved production planning: The ability to control the cooling rate precisely enables a more flexible  production planning of a wide spectrum of steel grades and dimensions.

Highlights of the project:

• Revamped cooling section: The cooling section has been replaced by a high-performance X-Roll® MultiFlex-Cooling system.
• Technological innovations: New top and bottom cooling headers, completely new piping and instrumentation, and the extension of the high- and low-pressure zones (DQ1 and DQ2) with precise open- and closed-loop control technology.
• Enhanced production processes: The new cooling section provides precise water application and distribution which significantly improves product quality.

Project scope and collaboration

SMS’s scope of supplies and services for the MultiFlex-Cooling system comprised the technological calculations and layout, the engineering, the manufacturing and the technical assistance during installation and commissioning. The cold- and hot commissioning was successfully completed by an international SMS team from China, Germany and Bahrain. This effective collaboration ensured that the installation and commissioning went smoothly with the result that Baowu was able to resume production quickly.

Feedback on the project

Dominik Hänel, Project Manager SMS group, commented on the successful outcome: “My greatest thanks go to all SMS colleagues who achieved tremendous results in such a short time. We would also like to thank Baowu as the success of this project lays the foundation for our continued successful cooperation.”

Lifecycle partnership 

More than two decades after Baowu, together with SMS group, ushered in a new era with the delivery of the first 5m heavy plate mill in China, the new MultiFlex-Cooling is the result of the partners’ joint expertise and commitment to technological excellence. From now on, it will be considered as the new industry benchmark and is set to strengthen the companies’ joint relationship. Both partners look forward to working together on future projects.