On March 15, Luoyang Copper Processing achieved a key breakthrough in its capacity expansion and equipment upgrade project, as the first cold rolling trial of its 3500 mm-wide copper and copper alloy plate mill was successfully completed ahead of schedule.
This trial comprehensively validated the core equipment’s performance parameters and the feasibility of the rolling process, laying a solid foundation for full-line commissioning and further process optimization. It marks a significant step forward in the company’s capabilities in high-end copper materials manufacturing.
The 3500 mm wide plate mill is a core asset in Luoyang’s strategy to advance high-end manufacturing. Featuring integrated hot and cold rolling functions, the mill is designed for deep processing of high-performance copper and copper alloy plates. It is equipped with an advanced intelligent rolling control system, positive and negative roll bending technology, and industry-leading “sled rolling” control processes. These enable micron-level roll gap precision and real-time control of rolling pressure throughout the process.
Such capabilities significantly improve plate flatness and effectively mitigate defects such as warping and edge buckling, addressing long-standing industry challenges including thickness inconsistency and shape deviation in wide copper plates. The combination of advanced process capabilities and intelligent control systems ensures high first-pass yield.
The trial used T2 copper plates as feedstock. A detailed commissioning plan was prepared in advance, with rolling passes scientifically designed and all process parameters closely monitored. The mill operated smoothly, with precise system response and strict adherence to process settings.
After multiple rolling passes, slab thickness was reduced from 118 mm to 18 mm, achieving a total reduction rate of 84%. The final product demonstrated excellent thickness tolerance consistency, fully meeting customer requirements. Notably, the maximum rolling force reached only 68% of the design capacity, confirming sufficient heavy-load capability beyond initial expectations.
The successful trial not only verifies the reliability of the 3500 mm mill but also provides valuable operational experience and process data for future large-scale production. The project team will next conduct dedicated trials for thinner gauges ranging from 8 mm to 3 mm, further optimizing key rolling parameters and improving efficiency and product quality.
At the same time, partial capacity will be released during trial production to ease the load on existing lines, injecting new momentum into overall production capacity growth.
Installation and commissioning of supporting equipment are progressing efficiently, with the project advancing steadily toward full completion. Moving forward, Luoyang Copper Processing aims to accelerate full-line commissioning, unlock high-end equipment capacity, and strengthen its position in the premium copper materials market, contributing to the high-quality development of the nonferrous metals industry.
Source：China-mcc.com