The core items of the new process automation are a profile and flatness control system, which will ensure clearly improved product tolerances, as well as the Microstructure Target Cooling solution package. This enables precise and reliable cooling of hot strip and thus production of modern materials such as multi-phase or special deep drawn steels. The new automation system will be set up in parallel with the existing one and can be commissioned by a simple changeover during operation. There is no need for additional plant downtime. Modernization is scheduled for completion at the start of 2016.
 
Handan Iron & Steel Group is part of Hebei Iron & Steel Group Co. Ltd. and, with a steel production of over 45 million metric tons (2013), is China's leading producer. The hot rolling mill, outfitted by Siemens with electrical and automation technology in 2000, produces hot strip with a width of up to 1,680 millimeters and produces 2.5 million metric tons every year, manufacturing high-grade steel for use in the automotive industry, shipbuilding and pipeline construction and also corrosion-resistant structural steels and deep drawn steels.
 
Siemens is modernizing the process automation system, supplying hardware and software and handling project planning, programming and commissioning. The new profile and flatness control will replace a third-party system. To avoid unnecessary plant downtimes and the resulting production shortfalls, the new hardware and software will be installed in parallel with existing systems, initially run in the so-called "shadow mode" and finally switched over to productive operation with the aid of a switch-over unit.