Salzgitter Starts Advanced Hot Straightening Machine at Mülheim Plant

Salzgitter has commissioned a new hot straightening machine at its Mannesmann Grobblech facility in Mülheim an der Ruhr, Germany, expanding its heavy plate processing capabilities and strengthening its position in the growing energy infrastructure market. The new system represents one of the largest individual investments made at the Mülheim site, with Salzgitter committing a double-digit million-euro amount to replace the previous equipment. Weighing around 1,100 metric tons, the machine was developed in collaboration with Austrian engineering company Buma Engineering & Anlagenbau GmbH. The equipment is designed to process particularly thick, high-strength steel plates used in demanding applications, including foundations and support structures for offshore wind turbines. The investment is expected to help Salzgitter access new markets while strengthening its heavy plate portfolio for renewable energy projects. Years of detailed planning enabled the company to complete dismantling, installation and commissioning with only a short production shutdown. The project supports Salzgitter’s wider strategy to become a key steel supplier for wind energy infrastructure while improving competitiveness in future-focused steel markets.