SMS Group has successfully completed a multi-phase modernisation of continuous galvanising line #1 (CVGL#1) for Hyundai Steel at its Dangjin plant in Korea, with the final acceptance certificate now awarded. The upgrade enhances operational efficiency, improves product quality and ensures long-term reliability, supporting Hyundai Steel’s ability to meet increasing performance demands, particularly in the automotive sector.

Delivered in two co-ordinated phases to maintain production continuity, the project addressed both downstream processing and core mill performance. The first phase focused on upgrading equipment following the skin pass mill, including the installation of a strip washer, strip dryer and optimised bridle roll sets, alongside new motors and drives. An advanced X-Pact line drive control system was implemented to deliver precise tension and elongation control, resulting in improved strip quality and smoother operation at higher processing speeds.

The second phase centred on the comprehensive modernisation of the skin pass mill. This included a full upgrade of the technological control system and integration of the latest X-Pact embedded controller. New hydraulic blocks and advanced servo valves for hydraulic gap control and work roll bending were also introduced, ensuring accurate strip thickness and flatness control, enhanced tension stability and reduced maintenance requirements. Rapid commissioning was achieved with minimal software adaptation, reducing production risk and enabling a swift return to normal operation.

Building on a partnership that began in 2005, when SMS Group converted the original continuous annealing line into a combined annealing and galvanising facility, the latest upgrade reinforces long-term collaboration. With CVGL#1 now operating in a stable and efficient manner, Hyundai Steel is well positioned to meet growing market demands while maintaining high standards of quality and process consistency.

More information www.sms-group.com

Whether used in seat belt fasteners, seat adjustment mechanisms or transmission components, stamped parts must meet the highest standards of precision to function reliably. Smooth, burr-free cut edges, along with excellent flatness, are essential to ensure consistent performance and durability in demanding automotive and industrial applications.

With the introduction of the HFA plus+ series, Andritz Schuler is expanding its fine-blanking portfolio with systems designed to deliver exactly this level of quality. The energy-efficient presses, offering press forces ranging from 3200 to 15,500 kN, achieve outputs of up to 85 strokes per minute, combining high productivity with exceptional part accuracy.

While the HFA plus+ series represents the latest evolution of this technology, it is built on decades of proven expertise. Andritz Schuler has already supplied more than 800 hydraulic fine-blanking systems worldwide through its long-standing collaboration with Feintool AG.

Under a newly structured partnership, Feintool continues to contribute process and tooling expertise, while Andritz Schuler takes responsibility for manufacturing the presses and delivering complete turnkey systems. Early in 2025, two HFA plus systems with a press force of 8800 kN were produced at the company’s Göppingen facility for deployment in the US.

The latest generation incorporates several technical enhancements, including a servo-controlled hydraulic pump drive that significantly improves energy efficiency while increasing stroke rates. Servo-driven automation components ensure fast and reliable material handling, while an advanced control system with integrated process monitoring supports seamless integration into Industry 4.0 environments.

Beyond installation, Andritz Schuler provides comprehensive lifecycle support, including maintenance, spare parts, upgrades and modernisation services, ensuring long-term performance for both new and existing fine-blanking systems.

More information www.schulergroup.com

The JEC World 2026 in Paris earlier this year once again confirmed why it is considered the world’s leading trade show for composite materials and composite manufacturing technologies. For Langzauner, an Austria-based press and automation specialist, the event was an excellent opportunity to meet customers, partners, and experts from the international composites industry in person.

A key theme throughout the exhibition was the continued industrialisation of composite production. As demand grows across sectors such as aerospace, automotive, energy and advanced mobility, manufacturers are under increasing pressure to deliver higher production speeds, improved process stability and consistently high component quality. Automation is playing a central role in meeting these requirements, enabling scalable, repeatable and efficient production environments.

Langzauner’s contribution to this evolution lies in its advanced press technology and automated production systems, designed specifically for high-precision composite manufacturing. By reducing manual intervention and enhancing process control, these solutions support greater productivity, improved traceability and reliable series production – critical factors in quality-driven industries.

A highlight of the company’s presence at the show was a thermoplastic ‘wing movable’ component, provided by FACC AG. Developed in collaboration with Embraer, Toray Advanced Composites and Coriolis Composites, the demonstrator illustrated the growing role of automated fibre placement and induction welding in the efficient production of thermoplastic structures for aerospace applications.

Langzauner extends its thanks to the organisers of JEC World for delivering another successful event that continues to foster innovation, collaboration and progress across the global composites industry.

More information www.langzauner.at/en

SICMI Srl of Italy reports the recent supply of a PCR 40 hydraulic C-frame press, a versatile and robust solution designed specifically for industrial straightening and assembly operations. The company says this model represents its technological excellence in the hydraulic press sector, combining a compact structure with high-level performance.

This electro-hydraulic press is distinguished by a power of 40 tonnes and a depth of 250 mm. Designed to maximise operating efficiency, the machine is equipped with: Double speed – a two-speed hydraulic unit that allows for a quick approach to 26 mm/sec and a precise working speed of 9 mm/sec; an optimised work plan – a milled and removable board from 700 x 500 mm is positioned above the fixed lower table, which is also equipped with two horizontal T-slots for quick and secure fixing of the moulds; and adjustable stroke – thanks to the integrated microswitches, the 500 mm cylinder stroke can be adjusted with high precision, making repetitive operations easier.

In full compliance with current regulations, the machine is equipped with CE certification and an anti-rotation system of the cylinder. The version provided was semi-automatic, which allows the operator to adjust the piston stroke and manage the movements via a practical combination of lever and button.

Thanks to the included equipment, such as a pair of V-prisms, the PCR 40 confirms itself as a tool suitable for manufacturers that require high precision in straightening profiles and metal components.

With over 40 years of experience, SICMI says it continues to support mechanical workshops around the world with reliable and customised ‘Made in Italy’ machinery.

More information www.sicmi.com