SMS group recently finished modernizing the downcoiler automation at thyssenkrupp Steel Europe’s hot strip mill No. 1 in Duisburg. This project replaced obsolete hardware and legacy operating systems with advanced level 1 automation and high-speed human machine interface (HMI) interfaces.

By integrating the X-Pact® ProBAS platform and an EtherCAT real-time Ethernet network, the facility now achieves faster control performance and more stable communication between high-speed sensors.

These technical improvements address spare part shortages while providing ergonomic visualization for operators. Part of a long-term lifecycle service partnership, the upgrade ensures the mill remains reliable for producing high-quality carbon steel flat products. This modernization provides a digital foundation for future efficiency gains, maintaining the plant's operational availability in an increasingly competitive market.