Benefits of the upgrade include reliable technical support, future access to spare parts and integration of two additional drives to support future coil size expansion. Sterling Steel said it will also benefit from improved system efficiency and reliability to reduce operational expenditure. 

“Primetals Technologies delivered exactly what we needed — a reliable, future-proof solution that integrates with our existing systems and supports our long-term goals. Their team’s deep understanding of our operations and rolling requirements made all the difference,” said Jeremy Heller, project manager at Sterling Steel.

Primetals Technologies said the scope of supply included engineering, equipment delivery and commissioning of the new DC drive systems. 

Modernization was needed due to Sterling Steel’s previous DC drives platform becoming obsolete, resulting in a lack of spare parts and diminished technical support, the company said. The new solution resolves these issues and integrates seamlessly with the existing Siemens PCS7 automation platform. 

This project continues a long-standing relationship between the companies.