ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih, a leading Ukrainian steel producer, has marked a significant industrial achievement by producing 16 million metric tons of billets since the inauguration of its continuous casting machine complex. The milestone comes as the converter workshop commemorates its 13th anniversary of continuous steel casting operations, demonstrating remarkable resilience in the face of wartime adversity.
The implementation of continuous casting technology has revolutionized the company's steel production capabilities since its introduction in October 2011. This advanced manufacturing process has delivered substantial improvements over traditional gating mold casting methods, yielding superior quality parameters, enhanced energy efficiency, and reduced metal waste. The facility has expanded from its initial single CCM unit to a comprehensive complex featuring three operational units.
Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, the continuous casting department has maintained operations while adapting to numerous challenges. Deputy Head of the Continuous Casting Shop, Olexander Lukyanov, highlights the significant obstacles faced by the facility, including frequent power disruptions, degraded water quality essential for technological processes, disrupted supply chains for ferroalloys and materials, workforce limitations, and complications in securing spare parts.
The facility's persistence through adversity is particularly noteworthy, with production reaching one million metric tons of billets in the current year, though volumes remain significantly below pre-war levels. This achievement underscores the dedication and coordination among various departments, including power engineers, transport workers, process automation specialists, and technical staff.
The success of the continuous casting operations stems from a collective effort to overcome wartime challenges through strategic planning and team collaboration. The facility's ability to maintain production, albeit at reduced levels, demonstrates the resilience of Ukraine's industrial sector amid unprecedented circumstances.
Looking ahead, ArcelorMittal Kryvyi Rih is planning a major overhaul of CCM No. 1, with technological upgrades aimed at expanding production capabilities. The planned improvements will enable the facility to manufacture both 160×160 mm and 150×150 mm billets, enhancing its product portfolio and operational flexibility.
