Sweden-based Outokumpu Stainless AB has awarded SMS Demag a contract for the modernization of the KBR-L 76 stainless steel annealing and pickling line at its Avesta works. Revamping is scheduled to take place in July 2007 during a two week line shutdown. Chemical and electrolytic process sections of the KBR-L76 line will be equipped with new tanks, rollers, a new platform and a stainless steel drip pan as part of the modernization. The recirculation systems and the intermediate rinsing tank will also be upgraded. The stainless steel annealing and pickling line at the Avesta works is designed to handle particularly wide and thick stainless steel strip with an annual production of around 300,000tns. It processes 1.5mm to 13mm thick hot and cold SS strips in widths range of 1,250mm and 2,100mm. In addition to standard grades, special and duplex steels are processed at a maximum speed of 36 meter per minute.
