SMS Mevac GmbH recently completed modernization of Cover Car No. 1 for HKM Hüttenwerke Krupp Mannesmann GmbH, Germany. The purpose of the upgrade measure was to increase the wire feeding capacity of VD plant No. 1.

The VD plant, which had been supplied by SMS Mevac in the 1980s, now includes two twin-strand wire feeders. For wire feeding eight coil storage positions were provided. Charging of the vacuum hopper is facilitated by means of a slewing-type pipe, facilitating a reduction of the treatment time.

SMS Mevac’s scope of supply comprised complete basic and detail engineering, supply of the mechanical equipment, dismantling and erection as well as commissioning. The electrical portion as well as the control system of the unit was performed by HKM.

For operational reasons, the cover car No. 2 will be revamped and put back into service in late 2004.

SMS Mevac GmbH forms part of the Metallurgical Plant and Rolling Mill Technology Business Area of the SMS group. The SMS group is 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 2003 around 9500 employees worldwide generated a turnover of around EUR 2.20 billion.