Control system upgrade improves process stability for 760,000 tpy bar mill

Shiu Wing Steel, Hong Kong, China

Plant data:
Plant: Shiu Wing Steel
Location: Hong Kong, China
Product: bars
Capacity: 760 000 tpy
Project: Electrical revamp
Start-up: October 2006

In late 2006, Russula provided a complete solution for the modernization of the 19 stand bar mill at Shiu Wing Steel in Hong Kong. The project scope of supply included replacing the existing control system and drives as well as revamping the electrical equipment for 2 intermediate start/stop shears.

The new automation system included the latest recipe management system, cascade speed control, low tension control and automatic loop control. The shear control was implemented with the new RT400 technology.

Russula's scope of supply included:

Wonderware HMI System
Siemens S7-400 Controllers
IBA High Speed Data Acquisition System
New Operator's Control Desks
Upgrading the Existing Drives with Profibus
Installation Advisement
Commissioning, Training and Spare Parts

In the past two years following the control system upgrade, Shiu Wing plant management has observed that there is more process stability and it is easier and quicker to change between product sizes. Due to higher process stability, the plant can produce at lower tolerances.