Marcegaglia Stainless Sheffield, based in the UK, has partnered with Primetals Technologies to optimize production processes across its Sheffield minimill. The modernization project aims to double the plant’s annual production capacity from 250,000 to 500,000 tons. Several intralogistics systems, process optimization solutions, technology packages, and intelligent sensor systems will be installed at all production units of the meltshop, scrap yard, and the ladle tracking system.
The project is tailored to Marcegaglia’s specific requirements, based on a recent Through-Process Optimization (TPO) study conducted by Primetals Technologies. The TPO assessment provided Marcegaglia a comprehensive analysis of the steelmaking plant, identifying bottlenecks and outlining potential improvement measures. A key result of the assessment, the improvement roadmap, highlights recommended actions to achieve a streamlined implementation process.
As a first step, Primetals Technologies will install Melt Expert, a fully automated electrode control system for electric arc and ladle furnaces. Mid-term plans include the implementation of process optimization software (Level 2) for the electric arc furnace (EAF), argon-oxygen decarburization (AOD), and ladle furnace (LF) plants. Long-term plans include the replacement of the electric arc furnace to accommodate the future productivity increase.
