ER BAKIR, Elektrolitik Bakir Mamulleri AS at Denizli in Turkey has placed an order with SMS Meer GmbH for the modernization of its existing CONTIROD® copper rod plant.

The aim of the comprehensive modernization measure is to increase the output from currently 18 tonne per hour to 30 tonne per hour of copper wire rod in the future. The modernization of the plant is scheduled for summer 2009.

The CONTIROD® plant was commissioned in 1999. SMS Meer’s modular design concept now makes it possible to easily integrate additional components into the line. For example, additional burners will increase the melting capacity of the shaft furnace, the energy efficiency will be improved by raising the height of the existing shaft furnace and a new higher-performance charging system will be installed to meet the higher melting capacity.
Further activities will include the modification of the HAZELETT twinbelt caster for a larger casting cross-section. At the same time, the fundamental principle of the solidification of the melt in a straight line with the associated benefits for the product quality will be retained. Two additional mill stands will be installed in the rolling mill to handle the larger casting cross-section.

During the course of the modernization, the electrical equipment of the CONTIROD® plant will be equipped with the latest PLC equipment. Process monitoring will be optimized to ensure a consistently high product quality. The new system components will also ensure the long-term availability of spare parts, a major advantage on the rapidly changing market for electrical automation.