Research and Development
In 2006, R&D activities focused on the standardization and optimization of push pickling lines and mixed acid recovery plants. A Zero Effluent Mixed Acid Plant (ZEMAP) was developed to meet the demand for a nitrate-free stainless steel pickling process. The combination of the total mixed acid recovery process (PYROMARS) and a patented rinse water recycling system has led to an economical and ecological breakthrough in stainless steel processing.
New coating technologies were investigated, using ionic liquids, CVD technology, and aqueous electro-galvanizing processes.
A new series of roll grinding machines was developed to enlarge the diameter of rolls that can be ground on machines up to 650 mm, meeting the closest tolerances. Special attention was paid to further optimizing the design of our heavy shears and multipurpose levellers covering a wide range of material thickness.
For the first time, the Business Area has installed a newly developed direct fired furnace zone as part of the new hot dip galvanizing line for voestalpine in Linz, Austria. It allows specific heat control over the strip width.
During 2006, Andritz presented a new generation of punching and metal-forming presses. The new generation of presses features a modular design which allows flexible adaptation to various customer demands.