• The inductive heating system combined with a range of advanced rolling technologies will enhance the hot strip mill’s performance and guarantee energy-efficient rolling of challenging products
• The modernization will largely take place during ongoing production, resulting in minimal downtime and assured continuity.
• The start of hot commissioning is scheduled for the end of November 2026

US steelmaker ArcelorMittal Calvert has placed an order with SMS group to modernize its hot strip mill (HSM) in Calvert, Alabama, USA. The 2,050-millimeter HSM was supplied by SMS group and started operation in 2010. ArcelorMittal Calvert plans to enhance the HSM to roll state-of-the-art steel grades and advanced hot strip products, while at the same improving rolling efficiency. SMS will ensure the smooth integration of the inductive heating system into the HSM, including the extension of the automation system.

The new inductive heating system, which will come fitted with heat insulation hoods, will be installed upstream of the finishing mill entry section. As a system solutions provider, SMS will deliver an advanced guiding and protection concept, including an entry-side wiper roll unit, two entry roller tables with side guides, inductive heating system, exit-side roller table with side guide, and exit-side wiper roll unit.

Elotherm inductive heating system
The inductive heating system is designed to heat the transfer bars to the required temperature and will ensure optimized downstream processing. The temperature of the transfer bar will be homogenized over its width and length within a tight tolerance range. 

To ensure homogeneous heating of the transfer bar, including the strip edge area, the Elotherm inductive heating technology package includes a combination of both longitudinal flux inductor (LF) and transversal flux inductor (TF), thus guaranteeing maximum efficiency. The inductive heating system to be supplied to ArcelorMittal Calvert consists of four longitudinal and two transversal flux inductors. Moreover, the system can be retracted, i.e., moved in and out of the line, providing not only for production flow flexibility but also for safe and easy maintenance. With each heater boasting a nominal output power of 4.8 megawatts, the inductive heating system is ultra efficient.

Integration measures 
A key element of the success story of the HSM at ArcelorMittal Calvert is the X-Pact^® electrical and automation system. It underscores the fruitful and longstanding collaborative partnership between ArcelorMittal Calvert and SMS since the original delivery of a complete electrical and automation equipment package, which was commissioned back in 2010. This was followed in 2018 by the integration of a transfer bar cooler. 

Currently ongoing activities include the gradual upgrade of the L1 automation hardware for the HSM, scheduled to be completed in 2027. By then, ArcelorMittal’s personnel will be fully trained and more than ready for the “go live” of the induction heating project.

All the mechanical equipment for the Elotherm inductive heating system will be pre-assembled and function-tested in the SMS workshops prior to delivery. This provides the best possible preparation for a smooth final assembly and commissioning. 

The project schedule was designed to minimize disruption to production. Where possible, the erection of the new equipment will take place in parallel with ongoing operations. The start of hot commissioning is scheduled for the end of November 2026.