Music City Center, in Nashville, Tennessee, played host to the 14th annual AISTech 2017, the Iron & Steel Technology Conference and Exposition. The event attracted more than 6,200 attendees far and wide to the music capital, which is home to the Grand Ole Opry House and The Country Music Hall of Fame.
The conference featured innovations and technologies from all over the world that help steel producers to compete more effectively in today’s global market. The venue also provided participants with the opportunity to meet face-to-face with key individuals involved in the manufacturing and processing of iron and steel. Over 535 companies exhibited, 504 presentations given, and 113 technical sessions were held, making this AISTech’s second best turnout.
Union Electric Åkers kicked off the week by treating customers to a night of music, libations, and southern-style cuisine at the world-famous Wildhorse Saloon, located in the heart of Music City’s downtown district.
In addition to exhibiting at the expo, representatives from Union Electric Åkers presented two technical papers. “Total Cost of Ownership Models,” by Ron Webber, laid out various aspects of analyzing the actual cost of using rolls. Mats Söder, R&D Manager, discussed TwinAlloy Steel grades for Hot Strip Mill Late Finishing Stands. Both papers can be made available upon request.
“The turnout at our booth was better than in past years,” said Lou Woistman, Area Sales Manager. “I think the recovery we’ve seen in the industry, since the fourth quarter of 2016, has people excited again about steel and optimistic for the future.”
Chris Morgan, Area Sales Manager, added, “I spoke with visitors to the booth about our business, about the impact of the tariffs, and about whether we thought the pickup in the industry is going to last. People are hopeful of the new leadership, and sustainable turnaround for the industry.”
There’s more to come from Union Electric Åkers! Be sure to look for us at AISTech 2018, which will be held May 7th through the 10th at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
