A leading Chinese steel producer has awarded Primetals Technologies a major modernization contract for its 5-strand bloom caster facility in eastern China, aimed at enhancing product quality, operational flexibility and production efficiency. The upgraded caster is expected to commence operations by the end of 2026.
The project is designed to strengthen the producer’s ability to manufacture high-value steel grades with improved internal quality and process consistency. As part of the modernization programme, Primetals Technologies will install a new withdrawal straightening unit (WSU) capable of delivering 200 tons of reduction force per pinch roll, compared with the existing 130 tons. The increased reduction force will significantly improve strand containment and internal bloom integrity during the casting process.
The upgraded system will also increase the number of pinch rolls from nine to eleven, enabling better distribution of reduction forces along the strand. This enhancement is expected to improve soft reduction precision and minimize internal segregation, ultimately contributing to superior bloom quality. The closer roller pitch between pinch rolls will support more refined process control and greater operational stability.
In addition to mechanical improvements, the project includes the introduction of an advanced secondary cooling system engineered to support a broader casting speed range. This will allow the steel producer to achieve greater production flexibility while maintaining optimal strand temperatures for enhanced metallurgical quality.
Primetals Technologies will further integrate its advanced digital and automation solutions, including DynaPhase, Dynacs 3D and DynaGap Soft Reduction 3D. These technologies use sophisticated thermodynamic calculations to monitor conductivity, density and strand temperature throughout the casting process. Combined with a newly installed electromagnetic stirrer, the upgraded caster is expected to achieve a segregation index of 1.05, delivering superior internal quality standards for demanding applications.
Following completion of the upgrade, the bloom caster will be better equipped to manufacture premium steel grades such as bearing steel, high-strength spring steel and high-carbon wire rod. These products require precise metallurgical characteristics and consistent internal quality to meet stringent industrial specifications.
The modernization project reflects growing investments by steel manufacturers in advanced casting technologies to support the production of high-performance steel products for automotive, engineering and industrial applications. By combining advanced automation, improved cooling systems and enhanced soft-reduction capabilities, the upgraded caster is expected to significantly improve production reliability, operational flexibility and product competitiveness.
Primetals Technologies continues to expand its presence in advanced steel manufacturing technologies, digital automation systems, and intelligent process optimisation solutions for steel producers worldwide. The company said the latest modernization project reinforces its focus on helping steel manufacturers improve efficiency, product quality, and operational sustainability through advanced engineering and automation technologies.
