At voestalpine Stahl GmbH in Linz, Austria Siemens VAI Metals Technologies has replaced the existing coiler 3 on the hot strip mill with a completely new coiler system. Conversion and commissioning were done together with a consortium partner. With the aid of the new high-performance coiler system, voestalpine will be able to expand its hot strip product range. The hot strip mill resumed operation on schedule in August.

voestalpine Stahl GmbH is currently implementing a series of modernization projects on the hot strip mill in Linz. The work is aimed at boosting production capacity and expanding the product range with high strength steel grades and thicker and wider hot strip. The project also provided for modernization of the coiler system, for which Siemens received an order at the beginning of 2009.

During refurbishment of coiler 3, the basic automation system of coilers 3, 4 and 5 was also modernized, including integration of the previous systems, and commissioned. The systems are equipped on the basis of the integrated Siroll HM solution concept for hot rolling mills. Despite a tight schedule, coiler 3 was modernized on schedule and operation of the hot strip mill was resumed on time.

voestalpine Stahl GmbH, which belongs to the steel division of voestalpine AG, operates a fully integrated steel works for hot strip production at its Linz location. Principal customers are the automotive industry and automotive suppliers, manufacturers of domestic appliances and building suppliers.