The order comprises the replacement of the sequence controllers. In future, the signals will be interconnected via decentralised I/O-systems, which are linked to the automation system by a fieldbus. The existing sensors and actuators will be linked into the newly supplied control cabinets. Some of the local control desks will also be modernised and the central I/O modules of the automation system will be replaced by new decentralised hardware. The aims of the modernisation are to improve operational safety and plant availability and increase personal safety in compliance with the machine safety regulation.
The order also includes essential adaptations of the visualisation system, modernisation of all motor feeders for the fixed-speed drives and power supplies (MCCs), as well as the application of a new safety concept throughout the entire plant, the supply of the door locks and release consoles, and implementation of the safety functions in the existing safety PLC. The scope of services covers the hardware and software engineering, the technical documentation, the manufacturing of the cabinets for the automation and MCC (motor control center), disassembly and erection, commissioning, on-call service, performance and availability tests.

First modernisation phase executed in 2018

Primetals had previously received an order from Voestalpine Stahl GmbH in 2018 to equip all speed-controlled drives with modern drive technology, and bring the software and hardware automation systems for the cleaning section and annealing furnace up to the state-of-the-art. The order also included the implementation of a state-of-the-art safety PLC and some technological expansions and improvements at the furnace section. The newly awarded follow-up order involves modernising the remaining basic automation systems and implementing the safety concept. The new project can also use the empirical values gained during many years of cooperation between Voestalpine Stahl and Primetals.
Voestalpine Stahl GmbH runs a fully integrated iron and steel works in Linz, Austria, with all process stages at one location: coking plant, steel works, hot and cold rolling mill, galvanising and strip coating. The continuous annealing line 1 (KGL1) at the Linz plant produces annealed steel strip which meets the highest quality and material demands.
_{(Source: Primetals Technologies, Limited)}