Kametstal Iron and Steel Works, a prominent player in the Ukrainian steel industry, has recently announced the successful completion of a major overhaul of its blast furnace No. 9. This significant refurbishment marks an important step for the company as it seeks to enhance its production capabilities and maintain its position in the competitive steel market. The overhaul involved comprehensive upgrades, primarily focusing on restoring the refractory lining and the upper roof of the furnace, along with the replacement of essential cooling plates.
The overhaul was carried out by specialized repair contractors who efficiently addressed critical components of the blast furnace. Notably, the team from Zaporizhvognetryv repaired the refractory lining of the hot blast duct, while the Central Repair and Maintenance Department, in collaboration with Metinvest Promservice, replaced the fans of the air heaters. These repairs are crucial as they directly impact the efficiency and safety of the furnace's operations.
Additionally, the overhaul included the upgrade of the blast furnace loading equipment. Some steel structures and top loading equipment were replaced, and the inclined bridge underwent necessary repairs. These enhancements not only improve operational efficiency but also contribute to the overall longevity of the furnace, which is vital for meeting production targets.
Evgeny Podgorny, Deputy Head of Blast Furnace Shop for Engineering at Kametstal, highlighted the collaborative efforts of contractors and the blast furnace repair team, stating that the timely completion of the overhaul ensures the stable operation of the furnace. This stability is essential for achieving the planned pig iron production targets throughout the operational interval until the next scheduled maintenance.
In September 2024, Kametstal also conducted an accelerated overhaul of its blast furnace No. 1M, which focused on restoring the refractory lining of the air heater block and replacing critical water-cooling elements. This demonstrates the company's commitment to maintaining its infrastructure and enhancing production efficiency across multiple units.
The successful completion of the overhaul of blast furnace No. 9 is expected to have a positive impact on Kametstal's overall production capacity. As the steel industry continues to evolve, maintaining and upgrading existing facilities becomes increasingly important. Kametstal’s proactive approach in investing in its production capabilities positions it well to adapt to market demands and technological advancements.
