SMS group has been awarded a contract by Zhejiang Winjoy New Material Co, Ltd to modernize a pre-owned six-high reversing cold rolling mill, strengthening the long-term partnership between the two companies while advancing sustainable copper strip production. The project will transform the existing Demag mill into a 1,250-millimetre-wide six-high CVC® plus (Continuously Variable Crown) breakdown copper strip mill at Winjoy’s manufacturing facility in the Hangzhou Bay Economic Development Zone in Shaoxing City. The modernization includes the supply of advanced mechanical and electrical systems designed to improve production efficiency, product quality and operational flexibility.
Originally commissioned in 1988 for tinplate production, the mill will be repurposed to manufacture high-quality copper and copper alloy strip, supporting the growing demand from sectors such as electronics, electric vehicles and advanced manufacturing. Once upgraded, the facility will have an annual production capacity of approximately 100,000 tonnes, processing copper alloy strip with entry thicknesses of up to 20 millimetres, exit thicknesses as low as 0.5 millimetres, and widths ranging from 600 to 1,150 millimetres.
The upgraded mill will incorporate SMS group’s CVC® plus flatness control technology and high-efficiency rolling oil cooling systems to ensure improved strip quality, precision and production consistency. The project also reflects a sustainable approach to manufacturing by extending the operational life of existing equipment through advanced engineering rather than replacing it with entirely new infrastructure.
The contract builds on the collaboration established in June 2025, when SMS group received orders from Winjoy for two 650-millimetre six-high CVC® finishing mills. The latest agreement further expands the relationship as both companies work to develop one of China’s most advanced copper strip production facilities.
Commenting on the partnership, Wang Jianli, Chairman of Winjoy, said, “SMS group has earned a strong reputation for its technical expertise and equipment capabilities. We look forward to strengthening our cooperation and are confident this partnership will support Winjoy’s continued growth and success.”
Peter Langner, CEO of SMS group China, added, “This agreement represents an important step in our long-term collaboration with Winjoy. Together, we are building an advanced copper rolling platform that combines innovative technology, operational efficiency and sustainable manufacturing practices.”
The project highlights SMS group’s expertise in modernizing existing rolling mills with advanced technologies that enhance productivity while reducing capital investment and environmental impact. By combining engineering innovation with lifecycle support, the company continues to help manufacturers improve competitiveness and build more resource-efficient production operations.
SMS group is a global technology partner to the metals industry, providing equipment, digital solutions and services across the entire plant lifecycle. With more than 150 years of engineering experience and a workforce of over 13,000 employees worldwide, the company is focused on supporting sustainable and resource-efficient metals production.
