Bhushan Steel and Strips Ltd., India, has awarded SMS Demag AG, Germany, a contract for the supply of a single strand slab caster.

The slab caster supply comprises the plant, process and automation systems. This includes the mold with resonant mold oscillator as well as the complete strand guide system with soft reduction to improve the internal quality. The resonant mold oscillator will be equipped with a lifting model for optimized oscillation to improve the strand's surface finish. The vertical-bend type continuous caster will be designed for a maximum casting speed of 2.2 meters/minute.

SMS Demag’s scope of supply includes the mechanical equipment, electrical and automation system inclusive of Level 2, with process computer and integrated quality monitoring system. Also included is supervision of erection and commissioning. Commissioning is scheduled for the spring of 2007.

Bhushan has also ordered a Conarc^® steelmaking plant plus downstream hot rolling mill from SMS Demag.

Bhushan Steel and Strips produces high-quality steel for the automobile industry and demanding pipe grades both for the Indian and overseas markets.

SMS Demag AG forms part of the Metallurgical Plant and Rolling Mill Technology Business Area of the SMS group. SMS GmbH is the holding for a group of companies internationally active in plant construction and mechanical engineering relating to the processing of steel, non-ferrous metals and plastics. The group is divided into the Business Areas of Metallurgical Plant and Rolling Mill Technology, Tube, Long Product and Forging Technology and Plastics Technology. In the year 2004 some 9,500 employees worldwide generated a turnover of about EUR 2.20 billion.