Gallatin Steel, Warwas , Kentucky, has awarded SMS Siemag LLc, Pittsburg, PA, a contract to design and supply a hydraulic oscillation system to replace the originally supplied electro-mechanical system. The installation is part Gallatin’s continuing efforts to enhance product quality, improve operational flexibility and reduce maintenance costs.
The four-cylinder oscillator system facilitates precise movements of the oscillation table and eliminates the need to synchronize multiple eccentrics that can lead to misalignment or table wobbling. The design was developed by SMS Siemag as a replacement option for both CSP® (Compact Strip Production) and conventional casting machines, especially for space limited applications. At several reference installations, the simultaneous optimization of stroke and frequency parameters has achieved reliable production at a high product quality.
SMS Siemag will provide the engineering and supply of the complete mechanical, hydraulic and X-Pact® automation systems. Associated spare parts and maintenance equipment are included, along with basic engineering for the infrastructural changes necessary to incorporate the new design and an improved steam evacuation system. Prior to shipment, the entire oscillation system is scheduled to be shop-tested through the complete stroke and frequency range, to streamline start-up and commissioning.
Commissioning is scheduled to take place in the second half of 2013.
Gallatin Steel operates a single-strand CSP® facility, which started up in 1995. With the implementation of the new equipment, Gallatin will have successfully taken another step towards their goals of improving quality, and productivity. With the possibility of expanding the product range, Gallatin will also also be able to better serve their customers.