From STEEL GRIPS online
Europe

Worldwide unique belt caster for Salzgitter, Germany

Aug 26, 2010
Layout of the near-net-shape caster
Salzgitter Flachstahl GmbH has placed an order with SMS Siemag for the construction of a near-net-shape caster in Peine, Germany. A fundamentally different and worldwide unique casting concept will thus be implemented for the first time on an industrial scale and enable the casting
of new high-strength steels.

The advantages of the belt casting technology are considerable energy and CO2 savings compared to conventional steel production. Furthermore, it enables the industrial production of HSD steels (High Strength and Ductility).

Says Ulrich Grethe, CEO of Salzgitter Flachstahl GmbH: "In addition to an unusual formability, HSD steels have a high strength and are thus ideally suited for use in automobiles. The use of HSD steel plates here helps to conserve resources: Lighter, fuel-efficient vehicles can be built because compared with conventional steels, these light structural steels allow a higher reduction in weight. Their  density is approx. 5 % lower than that of conventional steels. Furthermore, the new technical concepts in belt casting open up a fully new
materials spectrum that goes beyond HSD steels".

The order for a first-time implementation worldwide of this plant technology on an industrial scale comprises basic and detail engineering, the supply of the entire mechanical equipment as well as the complete electrical and automation system, all ancillary equipment, erection and cold commissioning in Peine as well as the modification of an existing mill stand for the further processing of near-net-shape strip in Salzgitter.

The project, was developed also together with the Clausthal Technical University.



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