AMT Magnetostrictive Sensors in Handan Iron & Steel

Handan, China – April 2025 — In a major step forward for industrial automation and precision control, Handan Iron & Steel Group Co., Ltd. has successfully integrated AMT magnetostrictive displacement sensors into its cold rolling production line. The implementation marks a significant advancement in the company’s pursuit of higher efficiency, product quality, and operational stability in steel manufacturing.

Background: The Demand for High-Precision Measurement

Cold rolling is a critical process in steel production, where metal sheets are passed through rollers at room temperature to achieve precise thickness and surface finish. Maintaining consistent roll gap positioning is essential to ensure high-quality output and minimize material waste. Traditional measurement systems often struggle with environmental challenges such as vibration, dust, and electromagnetic interference, which can compromise accuracy.

To address these issues, Handan Iron & Steel turned to AMT (Advanced Measurement Technology) magnetostrictive displacement sensors — known for their non-contact design, high repeatability, and robust performance in harsh industrial environments.

AMT Magnetostrictive Sensor Integration

The AMT sensors were installed on the hydraulic cylinder systems that control the vertical rolls in the tandem cold mill. These sensors provide real-time feedback of the roll positions with sub-micron level accuracy, enabling precise adjustments during the rolling process.

Key features of the AMT sensors that contributed to their successful deployment include:

·Non-contact operation: Eliminates mechanical wear and extends service life.

·High resolution and repeatability: Ensures uniform sheet thickness across batches.

·Immunity to external interference: Maintains signal integrity despite plant floor vibrations and electromagnetic fields.

·Modular design: Facilitates easy installation and maintenance within existing equipment.

Operational Benefits and Outcomes

Since the integration of AMT displacement sensors, Handan Iron & Steel has reported several measurable improvements:

·Improved Thickness Control: Deviations in sheet thickness have been reduced by over 40%, meeting tighter customer specifications.

·Reduced Downtime: The reliability of the sensors has led to fewer recalibrations and system failures.

·Enhanced Process Automation: Real-time data from the sensors is fed directly into the PLC control system, allowing for dynamic adjustments and greater process autonomy.

·Increased Productivity: With more stable and accurate rolling operations, production rates have increased while scrap rates have dropped significantly.

Industry Implications

The successful application of AMT magnetostrictive displacement sensors in Handan's cold rolling line demonstrates the growing role of advanced sensing technologies in modernizing traditional heavy industries. As China continues to push forward with Industry 4.0 initiatives, integrating smart instrumentation like AMT sensors is becoming essential for competitiveness in global markets.

“Precision is no longer optional in steel production — it’s a requirement,” said Zhang Wei, an engineer of Handan Iron & Steel. “With AMT sensors, we’ve taken a major leap toward achieving world-class standards in both product quality and process efficiency.”

Conclusion

The adoption of AMT magnetostrictive displacement sensors by Handan Iron & Steel represents a model case of how cutting-edge sensor technology can transform legacy manufacturing systems. By delivering high-performance measurement capabilities in one of the most demanding industrial environments, AMT has proven its value in enhancing both productivity and product consistency.

As more Chinese steelmakers seek to upgrade their facilities, the use of intelligent, high-precision sensors like those from AMT is expected to become increasingly widespread — paving the way for smarter, more sustainable steel production.

For media inquiries or technical details about AMT sensors, please contact:

Email: amt@amtsensor.com