F.L.Smidth signs major automation contract with Syrian cement producer

In November 2003, F.L.Smidth won an order for a one million tonnes per year cement production line in Syria (Stock Exchange message No. 31 released on 13 November 2003). F.L.Smidth Automation, a division of F.L.Smidth, has now been awarded an additional contract covering all the major automation and electrical equipment for the cement production line which is to be built in Hama in central Syria. The 15 million euro contract was signed with Ehdasse Sanat Corporation (ESC), a state-owned Iranian company.

The order comprises distribution equipment, transformers, motors, installation equipment, lighting, communication equipment, monitor system, gas analysis equipment, instrumentation, control and laboratory system and expert systems. F.L.Smidth Automation will also assist with supervision of installation and commissioning and provide training for the Syrian personnel.

The equipment is to be delivered over the next 22 months and the production line is expected to come on stream during the second half of 2005.

Ehdasse Sanat Corporation, which is responsible for the project in Syria, is Iran's second-largest cement producer and owns several plants. Since it was established in 1987, F.L.Smidth has supplied several projects plus machinery and know-how to ESC.

"We are proud of having won this significant automation contract with Ehdasse Sanat Corporation," says Frank Gad, CEO, F.L.Smidth. "This order confirms our strong position in the market for cement plant automation equipment."

The order is expected to contribute positively to the FLS Group's earnings in 2004 - 2005.

FLS Industries A/S
Corporate Public Relations