Danieli Germany (Düsseldorf, Germany):

A. Stenico, Technology Manager

Danieli & C. SpA (Buttrio, Italy):
W. Tami, Marketing and Communication Specialist, e-mail: w.tami@danieli.com

The world’s first installation of a direct quenching system downstream of a plate/Steckel mill has started full industrial production at Nucor Steel Tuscaloosa after the Final Acceptance Certificate was released in March. Also included in the package is CQE (Coil Quality Estimator) system, a mathematical model for predicting product’s mechanical properties in real time. Hot tests and commissioning were carried out during normal production. The successful installation of the direct quenching system fulfilled the target of reducing the alloy content for HSLA steel grades. Additionally, the enhanced cooling capability makes possible the development of new, high value products, promising gains in market share. A quick return of invest is therefore expected.