SMS group receives FAC after plant upgrade in Korea

Modernised hot-dip galvanising line after Phase One, with new bridle rolls and a strip dryer

Hyundai Steel has awarded the final acceptance certificate to SMS group for the multi‑phase upgrade of continuous galvanising line #1 (CVGL#1) at its Dangjin plant in Korea. The project strengthened operational efficiency, improved product quality, and secured the long‑term reliability of the line, enabling Hyundai Steel to meet growing performance demands, particularly in the automotive sector. By modernising both mechanical and automation systems, SMS group has helped Hyundai Steel significantly improve processing stability while extending the lifetime and capability of the continuous galvanising line.

The upgrade was executed in two coordinated phases to maintain production continuity. The first phase focused on enhancing downstream equipment following the skin pass mill. New process components such as a strip washer, strip dryer, and optimised bridle roll sets were installed, complemented by new bridle motors and drives. With X Pact Line Drive Control tailored to the line’s requirements, the automation solution delivers precise tension and elongation control, contributing directly to improved strip quality and smoother operation at higher processing speeds.

The second phase centred on the technological modernisation of the skin pass mill itself. SMS implemented a complete upgrade of the technological control system (TCS) and integrated the latest X Pact Embedded controller. This phase also included the delivery of the new hydraulic blocks and advanced servo valves for hydraulic gap control (HGC) and work roll bending.

Together, these improvements ensured accurate strip thickness and flatness control, enhanced tension stability, reduced maintenance requirements, and enhanced overall line stability. SMS’s automation team enabled a rapid commissioning with minimal need to adapt the software, reducing any risk to production while accelerating the resumption to normal operation.

Sustainable operation
By combining modern hydraulic systems with cutting-edge automation technology, SMS group demonstrated its expertise in carrying out complex modernisation projects within existing plant environments. The result is a more stable and efficient production line that supports Hyundai Steel’s ongoing commitment to quality, process consistency, and sustainable operation.

Jin-Hyeong Park, senior manager of the cold rolling maintenance team at Hyundai Steel, highlighted the importance of the collaboration: “The final acceptance represents another significant step in our long-standing cooperation with SMS group. Its long-term expertise, dating back to the original conversion of our line, has proven valuable once again. The latest modernisation further strengthens our production capabilities and supports our focus on quality and efficiency.”

The successful partnership between Hyundai Steel and SMS began in 2005 with the conversion of the original continuous annealing line into one of the world’s first combined continuous annealing and galvanising lines. Nearly two decades later, the modernised CVGL#1 continues to demonstrate the value of long-term collaboration supported by technical depth and project experience.

With the enhanced line now in stable operation, Hyundai Steel is well positioned to meet growing customer demands and maintain the highest operational standards across its galvanised product portfolio.