The Manama-based leading aluminium producer, Gulf Aluminium Rolling Mill B.S.C. (GARMCO), has collaborated with the SMS group GmbH, with a goal to successfully upgrade and deliver motors and drives in the one-stand reversing hot rolling mill. Although initially designed by a third-party supplier, this new step brings both companies closer to achieving the milestone of utilising the operational efficiency and reliability of the mill to meet the demands of the aluminium industry in future.

Image for representational purpose only (source: https://live.cdn.cms.sms-group.com/)

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The project set the goal of replacing the three-phase AC motors and state-of-the-art drive technology, which contained variable frequency drive systems that were powered by active front ends and new transformers. This new drive system aims to deliver 20 per cent higher torque, surpassing the capacity of the mill’s original design.

The new system is highly modernised, and SMS’s groundbreaking twin-motor drive train equipment has played a significant role in it. Among the major components, there was a tailored gearbox. Having two SMS giant torque spindles and a rated power of 2150 kilowatts each, it is used to combine two electric motors. 

Moreover, its unique power capabilities provide cost-cutting corners as well as space reduction provisions, while at the same time leaving room for redundant measures. Other than supplying the mill with its main two motors, SMS has also provided a medium-voltage converter operated in load share mode called X-Pact^® Drive low-voltage frequency converter, used for the entry and exit coilers and transformers for feeding the new systems. 

This equipment has been customised to handle the strict and thorough demands of GARMCO’s operation that covers a broad production base of aluminium coils, tread plates, slit coils, and foils used in a variety of industrial applications like packaging and heat exchange systems. 

Despite the project’s one-of-a-kind nature, the partnership of the two companies has proved to be highly successful and worthwhile. The reliability of SMS group has borne fruit in the high-performance solutions for GARMCO, which showcase technical and optimised power superiority. 

Ebrahim Khalil, Executive Manager Operations, GARMCO, has greatly appreciated this collaborative venture and mentioned, “The completion of this modernisation project is a testament to our commitment to maintaining world-class operational standards. SMS group’s expertise and advanced technological solutions have provided us with greater reliability and efficiency in our hot mill operations.”  

The resultant success of this enterprise seals the deal between SMS and GARMCO. SMS offered technical assistance for the scalper machine, extended its constant support to GARMCO and laid the foundation of reliance and dependability. The successful completion of this collaborative project promises the delivery of sustained operational excellence by reaching the global customer base with high-quality aluminium produce.

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