State-of-the-art improvements set new standards for plate-making control and consistency

After sending employees to plate mills throughout the world, Bethlehem is investing over $80 million in Burns Harbor to incorporate the best available technology in the continuous upgrading of its plate–making facilities. Combined with the skills of its people, these improvements enable Burns Harbor to produce steel plate that is unmatched in cost effectiveness, manufacturability, mechanical properties, surface and internal quality, flatness and dimensional uniformity.

These technological advances include:

Computerized process control
Burns Harbor features America's most sophisticated computer system for rolling steel plate. Each stage of the process is continuously monitored and controlled to assure that the plate is meeting the exact specifications of the customer.

Upgraded furnace controls, plus burner and skid replacement
Provides uniform slab heating with improved surface quality, properties and dimensional control throughout the plate.

Descaling box
High–pressure water removes scale from slabs after reheating, minimizing the risk of scale being rolled into the plate.

Continuous on–line isotope thickness gauge
The most advanced thickness gauge in the steel business. Measures thickness across entire plate, not at just 2 or 3 locations. Provides tighter gauge control to help minimize crown in plates and also improve yield and weight variation.

Plate transfer roller beds and Walking Beam system
Walking Beam transfer system for heavy plate and roller beds for sheared plate virtually eliminate scratches and mechanical marks. This is particularly important for customers who require a good surface finish for painting.

Accelerated in–line cooling
Now in the final stages of engineering, accelerated cooling will provide more cost–effective carbon and HSLA products. It improves plate properties by creating a finer plate structure for superior strength and toughness. Also lowers the carbon equivalent for better weldability.

3,500-ton leveler
A computer-controlled 3,500-ton leveling unit, the largest in America, is also being installed. It dramatically increases downward pressure for a flatter plate. The goal is to guarantee 1/2 standard flatness tolerance and possibly 1/4 standard, while improving surface quality.

Burns Harbor 160" Plate Mill Layout

The most experienced people focused on being the best
Burns Harbor’s greatest asset is the experience and commitment of its people. Their focus is on making the best steel in the world. And this commitment exists throughout the plate operation, including on the shop floor, and in the office and field, as well as with customer service and technical support. The result is quality and consistency of product second to none and a total involvement in providing strong customer service and meeting individual customer needs.