Salzgitter AG Ramps up New Hot Straightening Machine in Mülheim

• Salzgitter Mannesmann Grobblech is expanding its sheet metal processing capabilities with the largest single investment in over 20 years
• The new facility underscores the Salzgitter Group's role as an infrastructure partner active in the future-oriented wind energy market

At the Salzgitter Mannesmann Grobblech GmbH plant in Mülheim an der Ruhr, this all-new facility marks an important step for future developments. The new hot straightening machine – one of the largest single investments ever committed at the site – is now operational. In completing this project, the Salzgitter AG subsidiary is expanding its capabilities in sheet metal processing and improving its access to new applications and markets, particularly in the energy infrastructure sector. The hot straightening machine – developed in collaboration with the Austrian partner Buma Engineering & Anlagenbau GmbH to meet special and specific requirements – enables the production of particularly thick sheets exhibiting high strength. These sheets find use, for example, in the foundations and support structures of offshore wind turbines.

A double digit million amount was invested in Mülheim to dismantle the old machine and install a new, more powerful system, tipping the scales at a total weight of 1,100 metric tons. Implementing the project required many years of detailed planning. Special tracks were installed over the cooling beds for the installation, which allowed for the foundation to be put down and the installation of the new system, while also facilitating the demolition of the old machine. In spite of the extensive work involved, thanks to forward-thinking and precise planning, only a brief shutdown was required in Mülheim for dismantling, installation, and commissioning.

Gunnar Groebler, Chairman of the Executive Board of Salzgitter AG: "Without high-performance steel products, the energy transition cannot succeed." With the commissioning of the new hot straightening machine, we are underlining the role of the Salzgitter Group – with its heavy plate specialists Salzgitter Mannesmann Grobblech and Ilsenburger Grobblech – as a full-service provider of steel for the energy infrastructure in the wind power sector. “This will improve our competitiveness and position us to further tap into future markets.”

Hans-Jaan Rachner, Managing Director of Technology and Finance at Salzgitter Mannesmann Grobblech GmbH: "Thanks to our investment in the hot straightening machine, we – as specialists in heavy plate – are able to further expand our expertise in the infrastructure sector for the future market of wind energy. With our portfolio of high-quality products, we are the perfect partner for our customers in their implementation of the energy transition. Special thanks go to our project team, headed by Daniel Rauße, whose outstanding work made it possible to launch production at the new facility on schedule."