In a statement, SMS group said the project entailed installation of a 4-high in-line skinpass mill, a new tension leveler, new fluid equipment, and new electrical and automation systems. With the upgrade, the company can now produce galvanized SAE grades 1006, 1008 and 1010 and steel strip products with yield strengths between 210 and 560 MPa and thicknesses from 0.23 mm to 2 mm.  

“The Villacero and SMS project teams jointly managed and implemented the project with successful results: remote connection was applied to all systems and webcams were installed to allow those involved in the project but unable to be present on-site, as the technology experts based in Italy, to monitor the available plant data and test results in real time,” SMS group said. 

“This guaranteed prompt troubleshooting whenever necessary and 24/7 support during the production ramp up. Video conferences were held on a regular basis to enhance the communication flow among team members and get tangible results from ongoing activities.”