Fives & Steel Dynamics ignite a preferred partnership
The Columbus Flat Roll Division of SDI is investing $140 million to add a new continuous hot dip galvanizing line (CGL № 3) into the existing plant in Columbus, Mississippi, USA and diversify its product portfolio. Currently, the Columbus Division serves the needs of the automotive, agriculture, appliance, building and construction, energy, HVAC, lighting and machinery industries.
Fives’ project scope will include design, supply and commissioning of the complete CGL № 3 that will be capable to produce 400,000 tons per year. The advanced line will be dedicated to produce unexposed automotive steel grades, as well as other commercial and specialized steel grades.
The scope of supply includes a complete design and supply of entry & exit coil handling sections, a degreasing section, a horizontal annealing furnace, hot dip galvanizing and cooling equipment, a skin-pass mill and strip leveler, inspection, metallurgical assistance for different steel grades and types of coating, as well as construction and commissioning assistance.
The new line is expected to be commissioned in the middle of 2020.
“SDI’s target is to increase value-added product capacity, diversify product portfolio and increase profitability by investing in new projects and advanced technologies; and we look forward to again working with Fives. With the three lines in Columbus, Mississippi, and a 4th planned for the new mill in south western region, SDI will become the leading supplier and a one-stop shop of coated products for customers throughout southern region of United States and in Mexico,” said Madhu Ranade, Vice President & General Manager of SDI Columbus.
The novel partnership began in August 2018, when SDI contracted Fives to upgrade its continuous galvanizing line (CGL № 2) at the same facility to increase production capacity. Fives deployed its specialty software, DMS OptiLine™ to simulate the complete operation of a strip processing line. More information.
Guillaume Mehlman, President of the Fives' Steel Division said: “We are proud to work with SDI to contribute to the success of their entrepreneurial-oriented business. Fives has significant references worldwide designing and supplying advanced technologies, including complete annealing, galvanizing and coating lines in the USA, Europe and Asia.”