Stahl Gerlafingen, the largest recycled steel producer in Switzerland, has received final acceptance for an upgrade to its wire rod mill in Gerlafingen. The project, completed by Primetals Technologies, focused on replacing the mill's laying head, which had previously caused frequent vibrations, unplanned shutdowns, and poor product quality.

The new laying head, equipped with an intelligent pinch roll, electrical motors and drives, and a monitoring system, immediately improved performance. The upgrade has led to more precise and stable coil formation, reduced vibrations, and a significant decrease in production stops.

The mill, which produces 600,000 tons of rebar and wire rod annually, can now operate at higher speeds with enhanced process stability and product quality.