December 2025
At ArcelorMittal SSC Europe, our Polish team completed a project involving the modernization of the Fimi cross-cutting line in Kraków, aimed at developing a hybrid straightening technology that represents a world-class innovation. Thanks to this investment, a key stage in preparing sheets for thermal cutting has been significantly improved, and material quality has increased substantially. The straightening process and accompanying research now allow us to deliver sheets with tighter flatness tolerances and reduced internal stresses, which directly impact work safety, efficiency, and costs for our customers.
A 30-meter Stretch Leveller (Stretcher) installed on the CTL Fimi line.
The modernization of the Fimi line in Kraków was a key element of ArcelorMittal SSC Poland’s development strategy, implemented under a program co-financed by the National Centre for Research and Development with funds from the European Union. The research was also carried out in cooperation with the Institute of Ferrous Metallurgy (IMŻ), which acted as a subcontractor for critical R&D tasks, bringing extensive experience in European and national projects related to the subject of this initiative.
The investment, worth over PLN 29 million, covered a comprehensive scope of activities: purchase of a modern Stretcher straightening machine, foundation works, reconstruction of electrical infrastructure, installation of advanced measurement systems, and full integration with the existing production line. This enabled the implementation of an innovative sheet straightening technology that significantly improves flatness and material stability, reduces internal stress, and minimizes the risk of deformation after thermal cutting. Supported by EU funds, the project not only increased process efficiency and reduced complaint costs but also strengthened SSC Poland’s competitiveness in the European market, paving the way for production in the highest quality classes – Laser Classic and Laser Premium. After implementation, the Steel Service Centres can supply approximately 150,000 tons/year of sheets with enhanced performance parameters to the European market, including for railway, automotive, and construction machinery manufacturers.
The project was evaluated by an independent certification body, TÜV, which confirmed the repeatability and stability of the process – essential for further technology development and safety across the entire supply chain.
As part of the project, sheets made of S355JR, S355MC, S500MC, and S700MC steel, with thicknesses of 3 - 10 mm, were tested after straightening and thermal cutting, checking for deformations, resistance to distortion, and compliance with Laser Classic and Laser Premium classes. The results clearly confirmed the high effectiveness of the stretching straightening technology - 92% of samples achieved the highest Laser Premium standard, and all met Laser Classic requirements.
"For us, the key was to prove that the process can operate consistently, regardless of material grade and thickness. We achieved what matters most to a process engineer: stability and predictability of parameters” – emphasizes Monika Witkowska-Stochel, Process Engineer and Project Leader.
The independent assessment by TÜV confirmed the stability and repeatability of the process, opening the way for full implementation in serial production. – "Thanks to this technology, we can guarantee Laser class requirements at a constant level. This is an important step toward improving quality and SSC Poland’s competitiveness.” – adds Michał Stachura, Plant Menager in Kraków.
From a quality perspective, the key point is that the stretching straightening technology significantly reduces the risk of unpredictable deformations after thermal cutting. This gives us not only better compliance with requirements but also greater process reliability which ultimately translates into stability across the entire supply chain for our customers.
"The obtained certificate confirmed that the stretching straightening technology allows us to achieve the highest standards of flatness and stability for sheets used in thermal cutting. This is an important step toward further improving the quality of our products and increasing process safety for customers.” – notes Barbara Mazur, Head of Quality SSC Poland.
Direct value for customers
The project also brings tangible benefits for customers: reduced risk of deformation after cutting, fewer complaints, and greater reliability of production processes.
"Every investment that improves material parameters and process stability strengthens our relationships with customers. The project results show how technology can truly support industry in moving toward greater precision and modernity.” – summarizes Monika Witkowska-Stochel.
We invite all companies seeking high sheet flatness parameters and reliability in further processing and distribution to cooperate with us. Our team will gladly assist in selecting the right solutions and delivering material that meets the requirements of even the most demanding production processes.
