POSCO announced on the 26th that it has succeeded in fully automating the preliminary processing stage for molten iron at the Pohang Steelworks' 3rd steel mill, bringing it one step closer to its transformation into an intelligent factory.

The preliminary treatment facility (skimmer) at the Pohang Steelworks No. 3 steel mill automatically removes slag. /Courtesy of POSCO

The preliminary processing stage for molten iron is the starting point of the steelmaking process, where sulfur components are removed from the molten iron that comes from the blast furnace, and impurities such as slag are eliminated.

The Pohang Steelworks achieved 100% automation in the preliminary processing stage using its 'KR autonomous operation technology.' The automation not only improved quality uniformity but also reduced operating time by 3% and increased the yield rate by 2%.

POSCO developed AI video recognition systems that autonomously manage and assess operational data by integrating deep learning artificial intelligence technologies with 20 years of accumulated operational know-how.

The system detects the condition of the molten iron and identifies the amount and position of slag, determining the optimal path to remove the slag using AI until the target quantity is reached.

At the Gwangyang Steelworks, a smart fool-proof system was applied last year, incorporating Lidar sensor-based barriers and AI-based closed-circuit television (CCTV) in the walkways of the slab correction plant to enhance worker safety.

The smart fool-proof system is an advanced safety system developed by the Gwangyang Steelworks to prevent accidents and injuries that may occur from worker mistakes, utilizing various technologies such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things.

The walkways of the slab correction plant are mixed areas for workers and crane movement, frequented by large vehicles such as trailers, and the application of this smart fool-proof system will enhance worker safety.

The digital transformation of the steelworks is being carried out in accordance with Chairman Jang In-hwa's seven major future innovation tasks aimed at 'rebuilding steel competitiveness.' POSCO noted that it will integrate accumulated on-site experience and know-how with the Internet of Things, AI, big data, and other technologies into the production process to implement an optimal production site.

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