Zaporizhstal Expands its Product Range with Six New Steel Offerings in 2024
Zaporizhstal Iron and Steel Works, one of Ukraine's leading steel producers, has significantly expanded its product portfolio in 2024. The company introduced six new steel products, four in the cold-rolled segment and two in the hot-rolled segment, as part of its strategy to meet growing demand and diversify its offerings for various industries, particularly construction and manufacturing.
Cold-Rolled Innovations:
In the cold-rolled steel segment, Zaporizhstal made remarkable strides by producing several new products tailored to meet specific customer needs:
1. S250GD Coils: These coils are designed for subsequent galvanizing and other coatings. They are primarily used for the manufacture of lightweight, thin-walled steel structures, a growing need in sectors such as construction and automotive.
2. S215G Rolled Steel: This product is used for producing open and welded metal profiles, sheets, and other building structures, reinforcing Zaporizhstal’s commitment to supplying materials that support the construction industry's evolution.
3. DC01 Coils: These coils, with a thickness of 2.5 mm, are manufactured in a wide range of grades. They are geared toward the construction sector and aim to improve the versatility of steel products available for building projects.
4. Cold-Rolled Sheets: Zaporizhstal also started producing cold-rolled sheets with thicknesses ranging from 2.1 mm to 2.5 mm. These sheets are crucial for the construction industry, offering a wide range of applications in building infrastructure.
Hot-Rolled Steel Additions:
In the hot-rolled segment, Zaporizhstal launched two new products, enhancing its offering for industries such as energy, infrastructure, and automotive:
1. S355JR/S355J2 Coils and Sheets: These products, with a thickness of 2.75 mm to 2.79 mm, are widely used in producing electric-welded pipes and profiles, essential for energy infrastructure projects.
2. 09G2/09G2S Steel Sheets: These sheets, with dimensions of 5.0×1500×6000 mm, are designed for producing structural elements for railway cars, demonstrating Zaporizhstal's role in supporting the transportation sector.
Production and Shipping Achievements:
Zaporizhstal's commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction led to the successful production and shipment of approximately 14,000 metric tons of these new products by the end of 2024. These products were distributed to international markets, including Bulgaria, Poland, Slovakia, and the domestic Ukrainian market.
Despite the challenging circumstances of 2024, which included labor shortages, energy supply limitations, and a logistics crisis, Zaporizhstal's dedication to growth and innovation allowed the company to compete effectively in both local and international markets.
Growth in Steel Production:
Zaporizhstal's overall production increased significantly in 2024. The company produced 3.11 million metric tons of pig iron, a 14.3% year-over-year increase, and 2.89 million metric tons of steel, a 17.2% y/y growth. Additionally, its rolled steel production rose by 18.3% y/y, underscoring the company’s ability to meet the growing demand despite ongoing challenges.
Commitment to Future Developments:
Taras Shevchenko, Acting CEO of Zaporizhstal, emphasized the company's ongoing efforts to expand its product range, with plans already in motion to develop three more new products. He highlighted the resilience of Ukrainian steelmakers, who are "working against all odds" to overcome challenges and continue producing high-quality steel products.
Zaporizhstal’s achievements in 2024 are a testament to its ability to innovate and adapt in a rapidly evolving market. With a focus on expanding its offerings and improving production, the company is well-positioned to remain a key player in the global steel industry moving forward.
