The next Generation of

Surface Treatment Solutions

Content

Lifecycle partnership: a trusted partner .............................................................................................................................. 4

Innovation: a driving force ..................................................................................................................................................................... 6
Revamping and modernisation: a valid alternative ............................................................................................. 7
Strip Pickling Lines ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 8
Pickling Lines for Long Products . .............................................................................................................................................. 12
Degreasing Lines . ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Acid Regeneration Technology .................................................................................................................................................... 20
Our commitment to sustainability and the environment ........................................................................ 24

The most trusted name in metal

surface treatment

PICKLING LINE
WASTE PICKLE LIQUOR

RINSE WATER

REGENERATED ACID

TANK FARM
WASTE PICKLE LIQUOR

FRESH WATER
FUEL

CMI Chemline engineering

your success worldwide
Lifecycle partnership Our worldwide team provides support throughout
the entire project life cycle, from design, construction and
commissioning to our after-sales and consultancy services. Our goal
is to deliver comprehensive solutions based on the individual needs
of our customers.
Customer focus Our products are designed and manufactured to offer
maximum value, from the delivery of complete new installations, to
productivity and quality improvements to existing lines.
A trusted partner As a wholly owned subsidiary of the CMI Group, CMI
Chemline has access to the resources and financial strength of a large,
international company, while remaining largely independent and thus
able to react quickly to changes and new challenges.

CMI Chemline has assembled

a worldwide team of over
100 scientists, engineers and
technicians. We have planned,
designed, automated,
financed, erected and
commissioned chemical
processing lines in every
international steel market.
Our proven reliability has
earned us the confidence
and respect of leading steel
companies around the
world. Our global presence
guarantees local contacts
wherever you are.

Why trust us with your

investment ?
Our project design focuses on your requirements. Costeffectiveness and versatility make CMI Chemline one of the best
qualified suppliers in the business. Our tailor-made solutions
and long years of experience guarantee:
Optimised design
Continuous innovation
Environmentally friendly operation
Low operating cost
Controlled utility consumption
Cost effective maintenance
Easy to service

RINSE WATER

REGENERATED ACID

ACID REGENERATION
PLANT

EXHAUST AIR
OXIDE

Environment:
Our goal, clean solutions
Stringent environmental standards and permit policies mean that capital
expenditure in the steel industry is increasingly directed towards
environmental improvements. CMI Chemlines products and services
enable its customers to face the challenges of reducing, or even eliminating, emissions and minimising consumption.
Closed loop CMI Chemline offers experience-based pickling knowhow, process automation and operating technology, including fully
integrated pickling systems that close the loop on acid balance and
allow the efficient management of consumable process chemicals with
a perfectly matched CMI Chemline fluidised bed or spray roaster acid
regeneration plant, thus minimising the environmental impact and
maximising operating efficiency.

The leading name in chemical processing

is also the most improved
Thourough
analysis

Plant
investigation

Concept
development

ANALYSIS
Minimizing
downtime
CONCEPT

CMI Chemline the partner at

your side
Growing with the challenge The steel industry of today needs solutions
that yield rapid results. In a highly competitive working environment,
global competitiveness is crucial to maintaining long-term business
viability. Asset performance and reliability are key to your business
performance. Unique and innovative solutions, customised engineering
and efficient project management enhancing safety, environmental
performance and production processes make CMI Chemline the partner
of choice.
Innovation - A driving force We attach particular importance to
selling solutions rather than products. R&D is the driving force behind
our organisation. Using our expertise as a springboard, we have been

Leading-edge technology
and continuous innovation are
designed into all our chemical
processing lines, providing a
new level of design flexibility.
Many of our innovations have
set global standards. We offer
a substantial track record,
with excellent results in all
applications.

PROJET
EXECUTION
Cost effective &
reliable solution

Revamping and
modernisation:
A valid alternative

Based on many years of experience and numerous references from

successful installations, our engineers have developed a systematic
approach to the implementation of tailor-made solutions aiming at
improving product quality, decreasing operating costs or extending
the product mix. Every revamping project starts with a detailed analysis

able to develop leading-edge technologies. CMI Chemline makes the

First we listen CMI Chemline offers engineering studies, revamping,

of the current situation, including an assessment of the existing

difference by maximising synergies within our constantly expanding

modernisation and training in order to help reduce equipment failure

equipment and operating procedures and identification of operational

organisation.

and operating costs and increase plant availability and safety, while

bottlenecks. This analysis is the key to the future success of the project,

improving product quality and reducing the ecological footprint of

as is the consideration of all boundary conditions and the closest

Our centralised technology centre works jointly with our teams of highly

your plant. Whether in increased line capacity to satisfy the demand of

possible contact with the customer throughout the entire project, from

qualified process scientists and engineers in our competence centres

downstream finishing lines or modernisation to adapt existing lines to

planning to implementation. Our goal is to offer cost-effective solutions

around the world, promoting cross-fertilisation and increasing the pace

market requirements, CMI Chemline has the optimum solution.

as a valid alternative to investment in new equipment, while minimising

of market-focused innovation.

downtime (e.g. pre-assembly or step by step implementation) and

production start-up time, while providing top quality.

Strip Pickling Lines

Modern pickling technology perfectly adapted to

our customers requirements

The better the surface quality at the beginning of the cold rolling process,

Our latest Pickling Process Management (PPM) system, together with

The modern Push Pull or Semi-Continuous Push Pull Pickling Line

the less waste there is in the downstream rolling and coating processes.

our fully automated Acid Control Management System, ensures the

can easily incorporate additional features to add value to the

Scale-free quality achieved through effective pickling produces strip free

environmentally safe operation of your plant using the best available

finished product. Examples include:

from surface impurities.

technology.

As a market leader, CMI Chemline supplies the full range of pickling

Push Pull Pickling Lines are used for processing individual coils

solutions for effective removal of mill scale and other surface impurities

without strip joining, ensuring excellent operational flexibility in the

from hot and cold rolled stainless steel, carbon steel or silicon steel, and

face of frequently changing strip dimensions and steel grades, and also

from non-ferrous metal strip such as aluminium, brass, etc. Our name

non-weldable material. Their specific design makes such lines the only

stands for the most modern and effective pickling technology in the

practical way of descaling heavy gauge coiled product.

steel industry.
Our engineers built the worlds first shallow tank pickling line,
introducing the turbulent pickling process which improved pickling
efficiency and thus replaced the more costly and less efficient deep tank
pickling technology.
CMI Chemline continues to develop this process and our high turbulence

Entry section:

descaling and correct strip shape

Exit section:

Our unique v-shaped tank profile facilitates threading the strip through
the pickling tank. The fact that there is no strip accumulator in the line
makes this technology easy to operate and the most cost-effective
method of hot band finishing. Applications range from the typical
service centre to the high production requirements of the largest mini
mills.

scale breaker/tension leveller to promote efficient

temper rolling mill for improved strip shape and surface

Continuous Pickling Lines (CPL) can be part of combined lines.

For carbon steel, including silicon steel, a CPL can be sold in
combination with:
Tandem Cold Mills (PLTCM)
Temper Rolling Mills
Galvanising Lines
Annealing Lines for Silicon Steel
CMI Industry offers tailor-made solutions for all these lines.

quality

oil applicator for surface protection during storage

dry lube application for downstream processing such as

roll forming and precision stamping

For stainless steel a CPL is incorporated into:

Hot Strip Annealing and Pickling Lines (HAPL)
Cold Strip Annealing and Pickling Lines (CAPL)

precision side trimming

Combined Hot/ Cold Strip Annealing Lines (H/CAPL)

automated scrap shopper unloading

Direct Roll Annealing Pickling Lines (DRAP)

pickling tank technology is currently among the most efficient and

also the most cost effective solutions on the market. Our pickling tanks
come in a range of profiles and acid injection systems, suitable for all
types of applications and product mixes. In addition, accurate control
of the strip and the pickling process optimises scale removal without
over-pickling.

Every CMI Chemline Pickling Line is specifically configured to the

clients product quality and capacity requirements. This ensures that the
installed technology meets production requirements and consistently
delivers the best value.

Tank Farm

Design features:
Pre-rinse section used for pull back operation
Conventional (steel/ rubber/ brick lined) or polypropylene
tank
High turbulence pickling with counter-flow design, decreasing
pickling time and thus increasing line capacity by up to 36%
Special alternate lateral acid injection for more efficient use of
acid in the system, thus reducing utility consumption
Special cost-effective cover design
Fully automated pickling liquor analysis and acid dosing,
reducing acid and utility consumption
Scratch-free strip processing
Highly efficient and fully automated fume absorption and
Semi-Continuous- and Continuous Pickling Lines are used for high

Annealing and Pickling Lines are used for the treatment of hot rolled

The following design features apply specifically to stainless steel

capacity production with continuous operation by stitching or welding.

(HAPL) and cold rolled (CAPL) stainless steel strip. The work-hardened

lines:

The strip accumulators, also called loopers, provided at the entry and

strip requires annealing and surface scale removal for both the hot and

specially arranged spray beams prevent sludge settlement in the

exit sections of the line ensure a consistent product flow during joining,

cold rolled material.

coiling and removal of the steel coils.

In co-operation with leading terminal equipment suppliers, CMI

continuous removal of sludge from the circulation system

Chemline has a long history of supplying Continuous Pickling Lines for

modular V-shaped passage through the electrolytic pickling tank

pickling tanks

Counter-flow cascade rinse section, decreasing water

consumption

High Turbulence Pickling Tank Open Cover

High pressure rinse for improved strip cleanliness

Strip dryer with edge blowing devices
Key benefits:

In continuous pickling, the line runs at constant speed, while in the Semi-

stainless steel. The optimum design of our chemical process section

Continuous Line the speed of the strip is reduced during changeover or

consists of a combination of electrolytic and mixed acid pickling. The

special design for the prevention of gas bubble formation on the

coil joining, due to the lower capacity of the loopers. The installation of

need for the quick adjustment of operational parameters and varying

strip surface during electrolytic pickling guarantees a uniformly

Maximum pickling efficiency and throughput rates

Semi-Continuous Lines is highly cost-effective due to the simpler looper

acid concentrations, due to the pickling of different types of austentic,

pickled strip

Uniform pickled surface

design, while Continuous Pickling Lines provide the highest production

ferretic and martensitic stainless steels, requires a highly flexible design,

capacity.

enabling adjustment to the specific processing requirements of each

steel grade. Operational efficiency in the production of top quality lightgauge stainless steel and speciality metals requires the close attention
to detail our engineers are able to provide.

10

avoiding electrode damage

scrubbing including a special line tank sealing system

Robust, low-maintenance equipment

Lowest possible operating costs, low utility and water

consumption
Optimised line design
PPM (Pickling Process Management) guarantees optimised
process control
Closed loop circulation of acid, rinse water and fumes for
environmentally friendly operation
11

Pickling Lines for Long Products

Comprehensive solutions focusing on the

individual needs of our customers

Pickling Lines for Long Products are a highly specialised group of batch

CMI Chemlines batch pickling plants are designed according to the

Sustainable solutions The most modern long product pickling

Batch treatment is not only used for the pickling of long products,

treatment lines, designed according to the product shape, process

efficiency, environmental and low energy demands of todays market

technology, as offered by CMI Chemline, not only means high

but can also be used for the full range of chemical surface treatment

required and unique parameters defined by the client.

for ferrous and non-ferrous metal production:

quality products and operator-friendly, safe working conditions,

processes for parts of all sizes made from all types of metals (cast

Wire Coil Pickling Lines

but also minimum emissions and effluents. CMI Chemline achieves

iron, carbon and stainless steel, aluminium, zinc, etc.). Based on

Design efficiency and minimum environmental emissions are the

Tube Pickling Lines

these objectives by using counter-flow cascade pickling, which

many years of experience, CMI Chemline is able to offer the optimum

hallmarks of CMI Chemline long product pickling plants.

Bar Pickling Lines

reduces acid consumption and, as a result, waste acid and liquid

Plate Pickling Lines

effluents. Additional features, such as our closed tunnel system with

Universal Pickling Lines

For us, environmental protection starts inside the plant. Consequently,

CMI Chemline offers an enclosed vent process, with a dedicated exhaust
system and waste air treatment to prevent fumes from escaping from
the pickling line. Stand-by essential equipment and an Uninterrupted
Power Supply (UPS) to put the plant into a safe mode on power loss are
additional features which ensure the continuous safe operation of the
plant under extreme working conditions.
Our new generation plants feature automated processing using a Level
II or Level III control system, multiple fill-drain cycles via an independent
transportation function, cascade rinsing using spray and immersion, waste
air and waste water treatment aimed at minimising emissions and acid
control and management through recovery or regeneration processes.

Highly efficient plants producing high quality products Along with

high turbulence pickling that ensures uniform pickling conditions and
high heat transfer rates, CMI Chemline uses hook vibration for uniform
pickling and a high pressure spray rinse arrangement that guarantees
a clean surface without residual contamination. Consistent quality and
optimised throughput, essential for high capacity lines, are achieved
by our automated pickling process. Last, but not least, the individual
training of operators and our after-sales service based on long years of
experience and many references from successfully operating plants,
guarantee continuing safe operation, high productivity and increased

separate sections for the appropriate treatment of different fumes,

our modern low-temperature phosphating that reduces sludge
generation and thus the amount of waste for disposal as well as our
total waste acid regeneration and reuse of rinse water, all contribute

sequence of chemical treatment steps to address the customers

specific needs for:
Degreasing
Rinsing
Pickling
Passivation
Anodisation

to the pursuit of the same objective to provide environmentally

Phosphating

friendly, high efficiency plants.

Conditioning
Coating
Our batch lines are specifically designed to our customers needs
and comprise the entire range from a single bath installation for a
specific treatment, to multi-stage treatment systems and combined
lines. This includes handling tools and cranes, instrumentation,
electrical components and automation.

plant availability.
CMI Chemline has supplied special batch treatment lines to many
different industries, including the automotive, aerospace and hot
dip galvanising sectors.

12

13

Design efficiency, minimum environmental emissions and low energy

consumption are the hallmarks of CMI Chemline Long Product Pickling
Lines.

Design features:
H
 igh turbulence pickling tanks: fibre reinforced plastic (FRP)
or polypropylene (PPH) construction with steel framework
and special corrosion-proof layer
C
 losed vent process with dedicated exhaust system and waste
air treatment
H
 igh level of instrumentation and automation with high
quality HMI graphics
S pecialised high pressure sprays based on the product
profile
C
 ascade rinsing for low water consumption
P
 ickling tank arrangement as a counter-flow cascade system
C
 ontinuous analysis of the pickling solution and dosing via
Long product pickling requires a variety of multiple treatment recipes.

Reducing the cost of pickling is an important design consideration

The closed vent process means that hydrochloric acid, with its significant

automated control system

Monitoring these different recipes to prevent possible interference is an

for CMI Chemline. Acids, cleaning agents or coating chemicals are held

operational advantages, such as a lower operating temperature

O
 ptimised process control through mathematical modelling

important consideration in avoiding over-pickling, incorrect coatings or

in well insulated tanks made of thick homogenous polypropylene,

compared with sulphuric acid, can be used for pickling without fear

C
 ompact neutralisation plants for waste water

loss of efficiency. Consequently, the designs of all of our lines are based

enclosed in a tunnel with a closed vent system, thus reducing heating

of corrosion of the adjacent equipment and buildings from volatile

R
 ecovery system for all main chemical consumables

on programmes specifically developed by CMI Chemline for various

and chemical costs. The tunnel creates an ideal work space, with low

emissions.

carbon and stainless steel alloys and product dimensions.

energy costs compared to lateral tank-side ventilation systems.

Central control system CMI Chemlines central control system with

Highest product quality through uniformly pickled surface

Computer simulation model CMI Chemline has developed a dynamic

CMI Chemline uses the most modern tunnel pickling technology, which

data logging and processing functions is useful in maintaining, records

Highest achievable production rates

computer simulation model to test the complete automation system

allows the pickling plant to be situated anywhere in the production

such as those required for ISO-driven process trending and recording.

O
 ptimised pickling parameters through mathematical modelling

before installation. The automation system is designed on the basis of

workshop. This means that the most suitable location can be selected

Alarms, instrumentation systems, excellent visual graphics and trend

Low operating costs with controlled utility consumption

the simulation model, which is subsequently updated by customer work

based on the production workflow, leading to reduced handling costs

indicators support the operation of the system.

Environmentally friendly operation

instructions, actual plant tests and commissioning data. The results are

and optimised material storage.

proven and reliable automation systems, for both new installations and

Key benefits:

Low maintenance costs

Closed loop systems for acid, water and air treatment

revamping.

14

15

Degreasing Lines

to prepare surfaces for top quality finishing work

From the delivery of complete new installations to productivity and

Our modular multi-stage system means that lines can be built to customers

Spray cleaning section: In order to heat the product to be treated

Electrolytic cleaning (for carbon steel only): Direct blistering on the

quality improvements in existing lines, for all carbon, stainless and silicon

specific line parameters and requirements.

to the required temperature and remove coarse contamination, the

strip surface results in a deep pore cleaning. CMI Chemline uses low

strip is intensively sprayed with a hot alkali cleaning agent. Our special

current density cleaning, guaranteeing the same excellent cleaning

steel grades as well as all non-ferrous metals, CMI Chemline is recognised

across the world for the delivery of technologically advanced cleaning

Excellent customer contacts combined with the experience of operating

nozzle design, the spray angles used and the optimum velocity of the

performance achieved with high current density, but with considerably

plants and processes for strip, long products and piece goods. A modular

production lines has enabled us to continuously optimise existing process

cleaning agents on to the strip result in a high mechanical cleaning

lower energy consumption. The specific flow path of the cleaning agent

combination of mechanical, chemical and electrolytic processes offers

technologies and strive for better solutions, focusing on energy reduction,

quality, combined with low fluid evaporation, low maintenance and

through the vertical process tank avoids the formation of gas bubbles and

the required design flexibility and ensures excellent cleaning efficiency

minimised use of chemicals and lower maintenance costs.

low energy losses.

minimises foam production. The construction of our electrolytic cleaning

for the degreasing of all types of metals.

CMI Chemlines cleaning concepts provide integrated or stand-alone
solutions for the following lines:
Galvanising Lines
Coating Lines
Annealing Lines
Long Products Processing Lines
Piece Goods Processing Lines

For Strip Degreasing or Cleaning Lines CMI Chemlines multi-stage

system combines alkaline spray cleaning, brush cleaning, electrolytic
cleaning and a final rinse section including a brush machine and dryer.
It is designed to remove almost 100% of surface contaminants before
further processing. Vertical spray degreasing and vertical electrolytic
degreasing allow for a long effective treatment time within a short
facility length, offering space-saving cleaning sections or plants. The
final degreasing line arrangement is an assembly of some or all of

Surface deposits such as oil, iron fines or other impurities discourage

these treatment steps, depending on the initial surface deposits, the

adhesion and consequently the functional layer applied to the metal

dimensions and the end use of the strip, but also the metal to be treated

surface is irregular and easily removable under mechanical pressure

and process criteria, such as line speed for example.

Brush cleaning section: CMI Chemlines brush machines are

characterised by robust design, long service life and ease of

section minimises energy losses and the vertical strip flow ensures a
perfect positioning of the strip between the electrodes without sagging.

maintenance. Our latest design allows for extremely low downtime

Final rinse section: CMI Chemline combines brush rinsing, spray rinsing

for brush and roll changes of approximately 15 minutes per unit,

and a dryer in this last process step using the latest cascade technology.

halving the time for the best technology previously available on the

The final brush rinse removes the remaining surface film, before the strip

market. Additionally our brushes are equipped with an automated

is rinsed in the last rinsing cascade, which is additionally equipped with

regulation system to optimise brushing efficiency and provide

a final high pressure spraying header in order to remove the cleaning

uniform degreasing and constant strip quality.

agent completely. Our multi-stage cascade rinse and the continuous

regulation and automation of the bath concentrations not only provide
excellent flushing, but combine reduced waste water requirements and
fresh water consumption with an excellent rinsing effect. In the last step,
the combination of strip edge blow-off and strip dryer guarantees the

and as a result cannot adequately fulfil its purpose. In preparing for the

most efficient and cost effective drying result, preventing the carry-over

surface refinement process, an ultra clean base strip or base part surface

of fluids to the next process.

is essential. CMI Chemlines cleaning solutions ensure that the functional

layer (coating, painting or others) adhere properly and thus guarantee
their best performance in service.

16

17 17

Our long term experience in this field together with our focus on
continuing design optimisation and innovation in order to improve the
quality of the strip or part to be cleaned are your guarantee that CMI
Chemlines Degreasing Lines provide the essential level of cleanness.

Design features:
E asy service spraying system: possible service during line
operation (no downtime)
L ong brush service life through robust design
E asy maintenance of brushing rolls and counter rolls with
specific dismounting tool (approx. 15 minutes per roll)
V
 ibration and leakage-free brush machines
O
 ptimised electrolyte routing and low current density for
deep pore cleaning
C
 ascading of rinsing water for reduced rinse and fresh water
consumption
C
 ascade guiding of cleaning media ensures maximum
For Batch Degreasing Lines CMI Chemlines expertise offers you the

We take responsibility Backed by the combination of our in-house

Bearings and seals are removed with the roll in one process step, and the

benefit of solutions tailored to produce top quality and performance

capabilities in the improvement and further development of process

roll change is fully automated. Both of these recent improvements to the

and individual environmentally friendly solutions. An optimised bath

technologies and our close co-operation with the industry, CMI

design enhance operator safety and significantly reduce downtime.

operation enhances the efficiency of our Batch Degreasing Lines, using

Chemline offers innovative and customised degreasing and cleaning

a specially designed agitation system to ensure the homogenous mass

lines. Our constant aim is to find better solutions for our customers.

exchange of the temperature and the concentration of the degreasing

solution, as well as an even rinsing effect in the rinsing section.
Our perfectly adapted counter-flow cascade design reduces utility
consumption, while a skimmer continuously cleans the degreasing
solution to extend its life and avoid cross-contamination of the units
leaving the degreasing batch tank. As with our Strip Degreasing Lines,
the bath concentrations are constantly monitored and optionally
treated in order to optimise consumption, while our leakage-free design
and latest fume treatment technology guarantee environmentally and
operator friendly operation of our lines.
18

Reliability through in-depth knowledge Our in-depth knowledge in

the field of degreasing and cleaning lines enables us to offer advanced

efficiency in strip cleaning

A
 utomated regulation of the cleaning agent concentration
O
 ptional magnetic filters and ultra-filtration increases
maintenance intervals
C
 losed exhaust treatment system across the line for reduced
emissions

The redesign of our brushing units solves the leakage problem with this

solutions in order to achieve an optimum result, thus providing our

type of equipment. Moreover, our newly designed brush positioning

customers with the innovative and customised solutions needed to

Key benefits:

system eliminates vibrations and thus considerably increases brush

face todays challenging market requirements.

E quipment construction and performance results in energy

service life and guarantees smooth operation without chatter marks.

savings
E nvironmentally friendly lines through reduced consumables

The specifically adapted hydraulic dismounting tool is designed for the

removal of brushing-, back-up- and wringer rolls.

consumption
L ine design adapted to lower maintenance costs
E asy service of major equipment increases uptime
V
 ertical arrangement of pre-degreasing and electrolytic
degreasing for reduced space requirements
19

Acid Regeneration Technology

The green solution

The better the surface quality at the beginning of the cold rolling
CMI Chemline has successfully developed and improved processes
process, the more our customers can reduce the waste in down-stream
for the regeneration of acids used in the pickling of metals and the
rolling and coating processes. Scale free quality is to be achieved though
leaching process for the mining industry for decades. All our plant
effective pickling, producing strip that is free from surface impurities.
layouts are optimised for ease of maintenance and reliable operation,
As a market leader,
CMI CHEMLINE
the full
range
of pickling
guaranteeing
the best
return on supplies
investment,
while
considerably
solutions for the most effective removal of iron oxides from mill scale
reducing the ecological footprint of our customers plants.
and other impurities from hot and cold rolled stainless steel , carbon
As a leader in this market segment, CMI Chemline offers a modular
steel or silicon steel but also non-ferrous metal strip like, aluminium,
design that guarantees our customers the optimal solution for all
brass etc. Our name stands for the most modern and effective pickling
their individual process requirements and applications, with acid
technology in the steel industry.
recovery rates of virtually 100%:
Our engineers built the worlds first shallow tank pickling line, introducing
turbulent
process with
thesteel
resulting
improvement
in
the
Fluidised
bedpickling
pyrohydrolysis
carbon
including
silicon steel
pickling efficiency and the highest quality on the market, thus replacing
applications
the more costly and less efficient deep tank pickling technology.
Spray roaster pyrohydrolysis carbon steel including silicon steel

Best available technology for

our Hydrochloric Acid (HCl)
regeneration process

Absorber System and Off-Gas Handling The HCl contained in the

Compared to conventional neutralisation plants, TOMAREG reduces

reactor off-gas is then passed through an absorber system using

annual costs by 70% and hazardous waste discharged to the environment

a counter-current circulation system, in which the rinse water from

by more than 98%.

Today two pyrohydrolysis processes are available, namely fluidised bed

acid, which is then reused in the pickling line. The remaining off-

and spray roaster technology, both of which have distinct advantages.

gas passes through several treatment steps, including the exhaust

Being able to offer either of these processes enables CMI Chemline to

fan which regulates the negative pressure in the whole upstream

focus fully on our customers specific site conditions and help them to

system preventing gas leaks, before being released via the stack into

choose the best option. Simplified processes such as our quick-change

the atmosphere.

maintenance free or the most modern plant control system (PCS) are
just a few examples of the features provided by the latest generation
of our plants. Our Acid Regeneration Plants (ARPs) are equipped with a
highly automated control system that minimises field intervention by

our high- stainless

turbulence
pickling
tank technology is not only among
today
TOMAREG
steel
applications
the
most
efficient,
but
also
the
most
Pyrohydrolysis - applications other cost
thaneffective
steel solutions on the

the operator and enables safe and reliable daily operation from a single

injection systems perfectly adapted to all types of applications as well

as the specific product mix to be pickled. In addition accurate control
of the strip and the pickling process, guarantees the best possible scale
removal without over-pickling.
This optimized control of the pickling process based on our latest PPM
(Pickling Process Management), as well as our fully automated Acid
Control Management System ensure the environmentally safe operation
of your plants using the best available technology.
20 20

to 100% of the waste pickle liquor (WPL) is converted back to liquid

spray nozzles, the improved design of our venturi rendering it completely

CMI
Chemline is constantly developing its turbulence pickling and
applications

market. Our pickling tanks come in different bottom profiles and acid

the pickling line absorbs the HCl in the reactor off-gas. Thus close

control room.
Reactor and Venturi Circulation System For the total regeneration
of Hydrochloric Acid (HCl), the waste pickle liquor from the pickling
line is concentrated by direct heat and mass exchange in the venturi
circulation system, before being injected into the spray roaster or
fluidised bed reactor, where it reacts with O2 and H2O to form solid iron
oxide and hydrogen chloride gas.

Specialized pyrohydrolysis plants

for the leaching process
In our ongoing effort to create sustainable and responsible solutions, CMI
Chemline has also developed plants used in the mineral leaching process,
and we are able to supply plants, including test or pilot plants, designed for

TOMAREG - A highly
innovative solution for the
regeneration of mixed acid

the beneficiation of ores of the following non-ferrous metals:

Nickel
Titanium
Magnesium
Zirconium

Mixed Acid used for stainless steel pickling consists of Hydrofluoric

Manganese

Acid (HF) and Nitric Acid (HNO3), both of which are expensive and

Cobalt

problematic in waste streams. TOMAREG recovers not only these

Chromium

expensive acids for reuse in the pickling line but also the valuable
metals contained in the waste stream. With TOMAREG, CMI Chemline

Other specialised plants can be developed through working with our

offers a system for pickling stainless steel that allows highly flexible

customers for other applications.

operation of the pickling line, due to the adjustable acid concentration

of the regenerated acid. TOMAREG can produce oxide either in the
form of a fine powder or coarse particles, as the plant can be delivered
optionally with spray roaster or fluidised bed technology.

21 21

Continuous awareness of market requirements and the specific needs

of our customers makes CMI Chemline the leading company in Acid
Regeneration for all types of acid and all available technologies.

Design features:
H
 igh degree of automation
P
 roven technology
H
 igh efficiency combustion systems
E asy start-up sequence
H
 igh efficiency fume treatment
O
 xide dust-free, free of trace components (FB-ARP)
O
 xide fine powder for ferrite industry tailor-made to
customers requirements (SR ARP)
S tand-by arrangement of essential equipment
L ow maintenance requirement
L ayout optimised for easy access
A
 ll high pressure lines shielded

Process Comparison
Spray Roaster vs. Fluidised Bed

Both processes, fluidised bed and spray roaster, offer specific advantages.

The highest market value is obtained in the soft and hard ferrite industry.

The fluidised bed has certain features which make it attractive to a particular

However, for an iron oxide to be usable as a raw material ferrite, it needs to

market, namely the considerably smaller space requirements, and the

meet constant physical and chemical properties with minimal variations,

E nhanced combustion system safety

C
 ontrol system designed to minimise operator field
intervention
S afe operation from control room

characteristics of the oxide, which are extremely low residual chloride content

requirements that significantly affect the price obtained for the iron oxide,

While both technologies are mature, it is not always easy to make the

and ease of handling. Consequently, the dust-free fluidised bed oxide can

but which are not always easy to achieve, mainly due to the varying waste

choice. A number of considerations potentially affect the decision. The cost

Key benefits:

easily be disposed of in landfill, or can be used as an aggregate or as an

pickle liquor quality. Additionally, the saturation rate of the iron oxide market

of handling and transport or the distance between the oxide producing

E nvironmental protection due to recovery of hazardous

addition to recycled iron used in the steel making process.

has a profound impact on the price obtained in the ferrite or pigment

plant and the oxide consuming industry are decisive factors when choosing

industry and makes the price cyclic.

chemicals
V
 irtually emission-free operation

between the two technologies. Additional considerations include energy

On the other hand, the spray roaster technology generates an iron oxide

or maintenance costs which are higher for the fluidised bed process, or

which is a highly valuable by-product. Used in the hard and soft ferrite

The above considerations argue against a reductionist approach to

H
 ighest achievable production rates

operating costs which are higher for the spray roaster process. Depending

industry and the pigment industry, the oxide can considerably improve the

assessing the choice of the most suitable technology. The appropriate

O
 ptimised pickling due to constant operating parameters

on where the acid regeneration plant (ARP) is to be built, the above factors

return on investment of the ARP.

choice encompasses the need to address a wide set of issues over

Independence from chemical suppliers

may differ considerably and some will be decisive in the final choice of

different time scales, while accommodating specific customer and market

S hort payback time

which technology to install.

requirements and constraints.

R
 ecovery of costs by sale of oxide as high quality by-product

P
 resent and future legal requirements on emissions are met
L ow maintenance costs
P
 roven design

22

A
 daptable to all types of Pickling Lines

23

Our commitment to sustainability

and the environment

CMI Chemline helping you

build the future
Against the background of rising energy prices and increasing
environmental awareness, sustainable development has become the
driving factor behind our global industrial system. The steel industry is
investing billions in becoming a more sustainable and environmentally

Our equipment helps

our customers meet the
needs of today without
compromising the needs of
tomorrow.

Recycling solutions
Clean perspectives
Designed to take into account the most modern technical and
process parameters, our Cleaning, Degreasing and Pickling Lines
support environmental aspirations by significantly reducing

Ultra-filtration, magnetic filters and vacuum evaporators are

examples of optional add-ons that ensure the highest efficiency of our
Degreasing and Cleaning Lines, while offering an environmentally friendly
operation by further reducing consumption and waste streams.
Our acid fume treatment systems offer the best available technology
(BAT) and not only comply with the present emission requirements, but
are already designed with reference to more stringent future legislation.

consumables and energy consumption.

In addition to fail-safe design, we offer key features such as a stand-by

friendly industry. This means that steel industry investment is increasingly

directed towards reduced energy and consumables consumption

CMI Chemline develops and supports sustainable recycling

and improved emission control, while increasing production and

solutions to minimise waste products down to zero in the

productivity.

best case. In addition to our in-line features, such as counterflow cascade technology, closed exhaust treatment systems,

exhaust fan and continuous off-gas monitoring.

Fumes loaded with NOx from e.g. mixed acid Pickling Lines are treated
most efficiently by Selective Catalytic Reactors (SCR-Technology).
CMI Chemline supplies highly reliable systems with low maintenance

CMI Chemline supports these goals by providing a diverse range of

optimised process control, continuous analysis of consumables

solutions. Our chemical process design not only helps you to master

and high turbulence pickling, CMI Chemline offers optional

the increasingly demanding quality requirements imposed by your

waste stream treatment solutions providing even more eco-

Our Neolyte Purification Systems not only reduce harmful chromium

customers, but also addresses increasingly stringent environmental

friendly and efficient operation.

(+6) to non-toxic chromium (+3), but also regenerate the electrolyte,

regulations. CMI Chemline offers a wide range of technologies for

the treatment of spent acid, waste water and waste air generated by

requirements, low operator attendance and a long lifetime.

thus reducing operating costs and the environmental impact of stainless

steel Pickling Lines.

all types of processing lines, in order to eliminate substances that are

harmful to the environment.

24

25

Engineering
your global
success

Closed Loop Recycling Regenerating waste pickle liquor from Pickling

Lines to produce regenerated acid and valuable iron oxide is the perfect
example of such a system. Based on many years of in-house experience,
CMI Chemline offers highly efficient system solutions by matching
metal pickling operations with the most adapted Acid Regeneration
Technology.
Leading technology Tightening environmental standards and stringent
air permit policies render it increasingly difficult to operate Pickling Lines
without an Acid Regeneration Plant.
Ultramodern acid regeneration technology from CMI Chemline not only
lays the foundation for optimised productivity and the highest possible
level of process safety, but also offers the most environmentally friendly
solution.
The waste acid from the pickling process can be recovered completely
with a total recovery efficiency > 99%
Rinse water from the pickling process can be utilised, allowing effluentfree operation of the PL + ARP system
Highly efficient dust reduction down to 1 micron particle size
High efficiency self cleaning gas scrubbing and dust separation
equipment guarantees Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) and dust emissions
below the prescribed emission limits.

CMI Chemline
focuses constantly on
reducing the impact of
industry on the environment
and its sustainability.
As such, our aim is to deliver
significant innovation in
processes or technologies
for the long term.

Along with CMI Rolling Mills, CMI Processing Lines, CMI Thermline

With its strength as an assembler behind it, CMI Industry is also active in

and CMI Greenline, CMI Chemline belongs to CMI Industry.

the supply of other production installations, and offers solutions in the

domain of reducing the environmental footprint of all types of industrial

A specialist in industrial processes, CMI Industry designs, modernises

installations.

and supplies cold steelmaking complexes. Cold rolling mills, steel

galvanising lines, thermal and chemical treatment equipment for

In addition to supplying equipment, CMI Industry also offers customer

steel, specialised equipment, are just some of the specialities in

support programs to assist in the start-up of the new or upgraded unit,

which CMI Industry possesses expert knowledge and mastery of

including complete and flexible customized training sessions, addressing

the latest technologies, and for which it has unparalleled references.

issues from equipment operation to final product quality.

By combining these various skills, CMI Industry holds a position in

the vanguard of leading-edge technological innovation for the

CMI Industry solutions are available everywhere in the world, either

modernization or construction of new integrated plants, including

through its operational units in Brazil, China, the United States, Europe,

electrical and automation systems.

India and Russia, or through its commercial network. Wherever he may

be situated, a client thus has a local contact to access a global offer of
services.

26

27

Business Units
Regional contacts

AMERICA
america@cmigroupe.com
Tel +1 330 332 4461
Fax +1 330 332 1853
BRASIL
brasil@cmigroupe.com
Tel +55 31 3789 5342
Fax +55 31 3789 5319
CHINA
china@cmigroupe.com
Tel +86 10 6561 1126
Fax +86 10 6561 2533
EASTERN EUROPE
AND DEUTSCHLAND
deutschland@cmigroupe.com
Tel +43 1 603 34 93
Fax +43 1 603 34 93
ESPAA
espana@cmigroupe.com
Tel +34 94 415 72 45
Fax +34 94 416 80 28
FRANCE
france@cmigroupe.com
Tel +33 4 42 06 95 36
Fax +33 4 42 06 76 38

ITALIA
italia@cmigroupe.com
Tel +39 331 67 97 71
Fax +39 331 63 02 53
RUSSIA
russia@cmigroupe.com
Tel +7 495 937 19 20
Fax +7 495 937 19 21

TRAINING CENTER LOCATION

MASTEEL - CMI
International Training Center Co., Ltd.

Hunanxilu No 8, Maanshan City

243000 Anhui Province
China
www.magang.com.cn

CMI chemline
chemline@cmigroupe.com
CMI Beugin
26, rue Jules Elby BP 57
F-62150 La Comt
France
Tel +33 3 21 47 52 00
Fax +33 3 21 47 52 01
CMI UVK GmbH
Robert-Bosch-Strae 12
D-56410 Montabaur
Germany
Tel +49 2602 99 99 0
Fax +49 2602 99 99 599
CMI Industry Americas Inc.
industry.americas@cmigroupe.com
Salem installation
435 W. Wilson St.,
Salem, OH 44460 USA
Tel +1 330 332 4661
Fax +1 330 332 1853

CMI Brasil Ltda

brasil@cmigroupe.com
Rua Fernandes Tourinho, 147 - sala
1002 - Savassi
30112-000 - Belo Horizonte - MG
Tel +55 31 3789 5342
Fax +55 31 3789 5319
CMI FPE Ltd
Mehta House, Stud N64,
Road N13, MIDC
Industrial Area Marol, Andheri (E)
400078 Mumbai
Maharashtra
India
Tel +91 22 6676 2727
Fax +91 22 6676 2737
CMI Beijing Engineering
beijing.engineering@cmigroupe.com
Hanwei Plaza, Room B719
7, Guanghua Road
Chaoyang District
100004 Beijing
China
Tel +86 10 5265 9797
Fax +86 10 5265 9700

CMI Industry (Head Office)

Avenue Greiner, 1
BE - 4100 Seraing
Belgium

Tel. +32 4 330 21 91

Fax +32 4 330 21 10
industry@cmigroupe.com

www.cmigroupe.com

EUROPE
industry@cmigroupe.com
Tel +32 4 330 21 91
Fax +32 4 330 21 10

INDIA
india@cmigroupe.com
Tel +91 22 667 627 27
Fax +91 22 667 627 37

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REGIONAL CONTACTS