In a groundbreaking move that underscores their commitment to low-carbon emissions and energy efficiency, Shanghai Baoshan, a subsidiary of the Baowu Group, has operationalized its 18th Danieli Zerobucket Ultra-High Power Electric Arc Furnace in China. This state-of-the-art 150-ton UHP EAF, furnished by Danieli, signifies a pivotal advancement in steelmaking technology, promising enhanced production flexibility and substantial cost savings.
The new EAF at Baosteel incorporates Danieli's cutting-edge mechatronic technology packages, designed to meet Baosteel's stringent requirements for intelligent and unmanned operation. Among these technological marvels is the Q-SmarTec dynamic electrode cooling system, which optimizes the cooling process to ensure efficiency and longevity. Additionally, the Q-Robot automatic sampling system ensures precise and reliable sample collection, crucial for maintaining high-quality standards in steel production.
Furthermore, the Q-ATS automatic tapping system, inclusive of the EBT automatic sanding device, streamlines the tapping process, reducing downtime and enhancing productivity. The Q-Slag automatic slag detection system minimizes operating costs by ensuring optimal slag management. Together, these innovations epitomize the future of automatic steelmaking, where human intervention is minimized, and efficiency is maximized.
The execution of this project was a testament to Danieli's engineering prowess and project management acumen. In a mere four and a half months, the transition from shutting down the old EAFs (#7 and #8) to the hot start of the new EAF was accomplished, an impressive feat in the realm of industrial engineering. This swift execution not only underscores Danieli's capability to deliver under tight schedules but also reflects Baosteel's commitment to maintaining uninterrupted production and operational efficiency.
The site of this new installation, EAF #9, also supplied by Danieli, has been a stalwart of stability and performance, operating efficiently for over 16 years. This longstanding success provided a solid foundation and confidence for the introduction of the new Zerobucket EAF, reinforcing the strategic partnership between Baosteel and Danieli.
The incorporation of continuous charging and preheating of scrap metal in the new EAF design is particularly noteworthy. This feature, allowing for the continuous charging of hot metal from the slag door side, provides unparalleled production flexibility, enabling Baosteel to adapt quickly to market demands and operational requirements. This innovation not only enhances production efficiency but also contributes to significant energy savings, aligning with global sustainability goals.
Baosteel's decision to adopt the Zerobucket EAF aligns with its broader strategic goals of reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy efficiency. This move is part of Baosteel's comprehensive strategy to modernize its operations and contribute to the global effort of combating climate change. By investing in such advanced technologies, Baosteel is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable steel production, paving the way for other industry players to follow suit.
