JNE was tasked by a plant construction company to aid in the installation of upgrades to a leading steel producer’s hot-dip galvanizing line (HDGL) which would allow the production of advanced high-strength steel (AHSS) products. Upgrades to the galvanizing line included the addition of induction heating zones and modifications to the furnace sections, furnace seal, roll, and steering units. In addition, enhancements were made to the exit end bridle units, shear, down coiler and bander which allows these systems to accommodate higher tensions. JNE provided installation engineering services in the form of civil, structural, piping, electrical and mechanical engineering. The AHSS upgrade process was overseen during 5 months of on-site construction support.

Automotive companies use advanced high-strength steels (AHSS) as they are lightweight, durable, and have an excellent combination of high strength and ductility.

The installation engineering of the existing HDGL was originally completed by JNE. This previous project equipped the engineering team with a knowledge and familiarity of the existing systems, giving them the ability to pull resources from archives to aid in the installation process. JNE was able to provide guidance regarding the existing cooling water capacity and take-over points. The original field verifications helped to develop the basic engineering related to anchor bolt locations and projections, electrical wiring, and equipment/structural interferences.

JNE’s past experience helped foster a deeper understanding of the client and their engineering needs. This put the company in the unique position to complete the project in an efficient, risk-reduced and timely manner.