Primetals Technologies Upgrades ASONEXT’s AOD Converter for Enhanced Steel Production
On January 18, 2025, Primetals Technologies achieved a significant milestone by receiving the Final Acceptance Certificate (FAC) for its successful revamp of ASONEXT’s argon-oxygen decarburization (AOD) converter shop in Brescia, Italy. This major upgrade is set to enhance ASONEXT’s ability to produce high-quality stainless steel and is part of the company’s long-term strategy to meet evolving market demands. The project was completed on schedule, showcasing the effective collaboration between the two companies.
The Scope of the Upgrade
The revamp involved a complete overhaul of ASONEXT's 40-ton AOD converter shop, where Primetals Technologies was responsible for engineering and providing key mechanical equipment. The scope of work included supplying two vessels and a trunnion ring, as well as overseeing construction and implementation. The new design incorporated several key upgrades aimed at improving the productivity and durability of the AOD converter.
Key Enhancements: Boosting Capacity and Lifespan
One of the most significant upgrades was the redesign of the converter’s vessel geometry. By increasing the inner volume of the vessels by 30%, the new design optimizes the vessel lining performance and increases the reaction volume. These changes contribute to enhanced production efficiency and allow for improved material processing, which is critical for producing special stainless steel alloys.
Additionally, the installation of a reinforced top cone plays a vital role in extending the converter's service life. The enhanced top cone design also simplifies maintenance procedures, which is crucial for minimizing downtime and reducing operational costs. These improvements make the AOD converter more reliable and efficient over its lifespan, which directly contributes to ASONEXT's overall productivity.
Strengthening ASONEXT’s Market Position
The upgraded AOD converter will allow ASONEXT to produce up to 50,000 metric tons of special stainless steel annually. The company serves several high-demand sectors, including aerospace, shipbuilding, and petrochemical industries, where there is a consistent need for premium-quality stainless steel. The improved production capabilities will enable ASONEXT to meet current market demands while positioning itself for future growth. As Federico Curreli, Chief Operating Officer at ASONEXT, noted, the upgrade is essential for meeting both current and future market needs for special stainless steel grades and alloys.
Ongoing Support and Process Optimization
Primetals Technologies is committed to providing continued support for ASONEXT. As part of the project, Primetals Technologies will offer metallurgical consulting services in the first quarter of 2025 to further optimize the production process with the newly installed AOD converter. This ongoing collaboration ensures that the converter will continue to operate at peak performance and that any potential process improvements are implemented swiftly.
Primetals Technologies: A Global Leader in AOD Equipment
Primetals Technologies is a recognized leader in AOD converter technology, having supplied the majority of the world’s AOD plants. The company’s expertise was instrumental in conducting a comprehensive study for ASONEXT, analyzing the previous AOD process and offering key recommendations for production improvements. This upgrade represents the realization of many of those recommendations, marking a new chapter in ASONEXT’s production capabilities.
Preparing for the Future of Stainless Steel Production
The upgraded AOD converter from Primetals Technologies will help ASONEXT not only increase its production output but also strengthen its position in the global stainless steel market. The ability to produce high-quality special stainless steel alloys is essential for meeting the demands of industries that rely on superior materials for critical applications. As ASONEXT continues to serve diverse industries, including aerospace and shipbuilding, the revamped converter will be an integral part of its operations, ensuring it remains competitive in a dynamic market.
Through this successful collaboration with Primetals Technologies, ASONEXT is well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the evolving steel industry while continuing to provide top-tier products for demanding applications.
