Start-up of the new 4 million t/year semi-continuous hot strip mill at Baosteel Meishan

In only six months from rolling the first coil, the new hot strip mill achieved a production of 68,000 t per week, which represents more than 80% of the rated capacity. In less than two months the plant was able to roll strips as thin as 1.2 mm - the plant's designed minimum strip thickness. Thanks to all the advanced actuators and a state-of-the-art automation system, this new hot strip mill has become an important asset for the steelmaker. This article describes the details of the plant and highlights its achievements and outstanding results.