The EloTube™ is part of a modernization program of Ovako. It will be placed in front of an existing Assel mill in a seamless tube plant. Hollow blooms coming directly from a rolling mill upstream will be reheated and equalized before entering the Assel mill.
Dr. Guido Opezzo, Sales Representative at SMS ELotherm: “The temperature of the shell is increased to 1,100degree Celsius and the better temperature homogeneity leads to enhanced product quality in the Assel mill operation. Also, the sizing rollers is extended due to less wear and tear.”
The induction system consists of six coils powered by state-of-the-art converters with transistor technology (IGBT) , totaling a rated power of 6,400kW. The demand for floor space of this reheating unit is less than 7m in length and 2.5meters in width.
The process control is realized by a combination of a tube speed measurement system based on Laser Doppler technology and a bicolor pyrometer for temperature measurement. “the induced power is determined by the speed and the incoming temperature of the shell. Overheating of the material is prevented and the optimum temperature level for the following sizing mill operation is achieved”, says Opezzo.
The EloBar™ and Elotube™ facilities will be commissioned in mid-2013.