Sarralle said the system, intended for an unidentified customer, will send billets straight from a continuous caster to a reheat furnace, improving energy efficiency and productivity. 

“A hot charging system improves the rolling process, obtaining an important benefit by improving the energy efficiency, lowering reheating furnace fuel consumption and also increasing the productivity of the line,” Sarralle said. 

“At the same time, this type of system will allow a better process automation and more respect for the environment.” 

The system is to be installed by 2025, Sarralle said.