AMI Automation is proud to share the results of a major SVC control system modernization at Nucor’s Memphis, TN steel mill, where our DigiSVC^® solution was deployed to enhance the performance and reliability of a 155 MVAr Static VAR Compensator (SVC) supporting an AC Electric Arc Furnace (EAF).

The project involved a full upgrade of the control system, protection panel, and thyristor firing circuit, replacing aging Light-Triggered Thyristor (LTT) technology with a modern Thyristor Controlled Reactor (TCR) firing system. The result: enhanced voltage stability, improved power factor correction, and reduced harmonic distortion, directly benefiting furnace performance and power system reliability.

Achieving precise thyristor valve firing was a critical challenge that was overcome through advanced real-time processing of data from power equipment and instrument transformers. The result is a more stable, efficient, and future-ready power system that meets today’s high performance and energy quality demands.

Operational Improvements:
Post-upgrade, Nucor Memphis achieved an 18.2% reduction in short-circuit events and a 3.9% decrease in overload occurrences. These measurable gains have contributed to extended equipment life, reduced maintenance needs, and increased production uptime.

This successful implementation would not have been possible without the outstanding collaboration of all the Nucor Team and the strong partnership established throughout all stages of project. Their technical insight, collaboration, and commitment played a key role in ensuring a smooth and effective deployment.

Another great example of DigiSVC^® in action, supporting our customers with the reliability, efficiency, and partnership they can count on. The next step would be the integration of our SmartSVC^® Module to connect the SVC with the DigitARC^® PX3 and SmartFurnace^®, enabling real-time process insights to drive smarter energy use and support even greater EAF optimization.