Nucor Steel Utah Division in Plymouth, Utah, has contracted Russula to upgrade the automation system and drives for the stacker on its #2 bar mill. The new equipment is expected to improve productivity by reducing downtime due to aging electronics, faster processor speed and advanced control techniques.
The new Russula Control System will improve the safety of the stacker for the operators and maintenance staff, and provide better speed control and superior performance. The recipe storage system will assist the operator to reduce errors. Russula will supply new Powerflex 755 AC drives from Rockwell and new DCS800 DC drives from ABB for the magnet power supplies.
Photo courtesy of Russula
The Russula Control System is constructed using a selection of hardware chosen specifically for this project, including Rockwell ControlLogix PLC’s, Rockwell GuardLogix PLCs, and FactoryTalk HMI. The GuardLogix is a Safety PLC and will be deployed in four defined safety zones with locking gates equipped with request to enter and reset buttons. All communication between the PLC’s, drives, new operator desks and remote I/O stations will be over Ethernet IP.
Russula is responsible for installation supervision, commissioning and operator/maintenance training. Installation and commissioning are scheduled for early 2015.
