Altos Hornos de Mexico SAB de CV has awarded Siemens a contract to modernize their existing basic and process automation systems on their Monclova Hot Strip Mill.
Siemens will supply and install modern automation technology based on the Siroll HM platform, which is specifically designed for hot rolling mills. The total value of the order is USD 21 million and the project is due to be completed in the summer of 2011.
The modernization project will upgrade AHMSA’s hot strip mill to improve the reliability and performance of the automation system. Additionally a new stronger Mill Stand F1 allows provisions for the production of new and stronger steel grades along with new and better load distribution for the entire finishing train of the steel mill
The scope of supply includes the digital front end for the roughing mill drive, the complete basic and process automation as well as the process models and technological controllers for the entire hot rolling mill. Modernization work will be done in stages in order to minimize downtimes and avoid initial loss of quality after the changeover, beginning with the replacement work for the downcoiler automation which is scheduled for the spring of 2010. Replacement of the roughing and finishing mill automation system will begin in the spring of 2010. Initially, parallel wiring of field signals will be implemented during scheduled maintenance shutdowns, after which the new automation system will be connected to monitor the mill functions ahead of the complete changeover to the new equipment.
AHMSA is the largest integrated steel plant in Mexico. Its corporate offices are located in Monclova, Coahuila, in the Mexican state of Coahuila. AHMSA operates at an annual production rate of 3 million tonnes of liquid steel, and has a workforce of 19,000 people, including its subsidiary companies. AHMSA produces flat steel products including hot and cold rolled coil, wide plate, tinplate and tin-free steel. It also produces non-flat steel products such as heavy shapes and light shapes.
