Aluminum Dynamics LLC (ADL) is entering the final phase of commissioning for its state-of-the-art integrated aluminum flat rolling complex, marking a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to advancing domestic aluminum production capabilities. Supported by SMS group’s innovative technologies and engineering expertise, the project is set to become one of the most advanced aluminum manufacturing facilities in North America.
Located in Columbus, Mississippi, the new greenfield facility is designed to deliver exceptional production flexibility, automation, and process reliability. Once fully operational, the plant will have the capacity to produce approximately 650,000 tons of aluminum sheet annually, serving critical markets including automotive manufacturing and beverage can production.
As ADL’s strategic technology partner, SMS group is providing the complete portfolio of core rolling equipment, electrical systems, automation solutions, and coil logistics technologies required for the integrated production route. The supplied equipment includes a 1+4 hot strip mill, a six-high single-stand cold rolling mill, two twin-stand tandem cold mills, automated high-bay coil storage systems from AMOVA, and a coating line for can end stock production.
The project has achieved several major milestones, including the successful production of the first aluminum coil from the hot rolling mill in June 2025 and the final acceptance of the hot strip mill later that year. These achievements demonstrate the effectiveness of close collaboration between ADL and SMS group teams, supported by advanced pre-assembly, testing, and digital commissioning methods.
SMS group’s X-Pact® electrical and automation systems are enabling a highly connected production environment designed to maximize efficiency, product consistency, and operational stability. Advanced process control technologies, including CVC® plus roll adjustment systems and real-time flatness control, support the production of aluminum sheet products that meet the demanding requirements of modern automotive and beverage applications.
The teams are now focused on final optimization activities for the first tandem cold mill, installation completion of the second tandem mill, and commissioning of the coating line. These efforts represent the final steps toward achieving full-scale production across the integrated facility.
“Together with Aluminum Dynamics, we have developed a facility that represents a major advancement in aluminum processing technology,” said Rainer Hoppe, Executive Project Director at SMS group. “The dedication and cooperation of both teams have been essential in bringing this ambitious project closer to completion.”
Upon completion, ADL’s facility will establish a complete aluminum production chain, from remelting to finished coated strip, strengthening the company’s ability to supply high-quality aluminum products to key North American industries. The project reflects ADL’s vision of building a next-generation manufacturing operation and reinforces SMS group’s role as a
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.
