Siemens VAI Metals Technologies will supply the ArcelorMittal steelworks in Kryviy Rih, Ukraine with secondary metallurgical equipment, a six-strand billet caster and the requisite auxiliary systems.
The order also includes a comprehensive service agreement under which Siemens VAI and DP Siemens Ukraine will provide services related to the local supply and service contracts for construction and installation, and prepare the documentation required for approvals by Ukrainian authorities. The new plants are designed for an annual production of 1.4 million ton of billets and are scheduled to come into operation in September 2011. ArcelorMittal Kryviy Rih has projected overall investment costs at $100 million of which the Siemens VAI order is worth around €30 million.
Jean Jouet, CEO of ArcelorMittal Kryviy Rih, explained the reason behind the order: “Worldwide today more than 80% of long products are being produced using continuous casting technology. As our strategy is focused on modernization and efficiency improvement, we are moving to this modern state-of-the-art–technology.” With the new billet line, ArcelorMittal Kryviy Rih plans to cut both specific energy consumption and pollution emissions by 10% for each ton of steel produced. At the same time, yield is to be increased by 10%.
The secondary metallurgical equipment to be supplied by Siemens comprises a new ladle furnace and the complete alloying facilities, including the weighing and transport systems. An integrated basic automation system (Level 1) for the furnace, alloying systems and dust-cleaning system will ensure optimal interaction between all plant components. The ladle furnace will also be equipped with a Level 2 process-optimization system. This will enable ArcelorMittal to produce a wider range of steel grades.
The new, six-strand billet caster will produce billets with a 150x150 mm cross section. The casting plant will be fitted with a number of technology packages to ensure high product quality. These include Diamold high-speed casting molds, Dynaflex mold oscillators, the LevCon mold-level control system and a Level 2 process-optimization system. Siemens will also supply a ladle turret and tundish cars for the casting area.
The secondary metallurgical equipment and the alloying facilities will be fitted with a common dust-cleaning system to lower the environmental impact. A water-treatment plant will be installed in the new billet line to reduce water consumption. The scope of supply also includes the installation of electrical power equipment, such as the furnace substation, transformers and heavy-current cables. Siemens will also be responsible for engineering, installation, advisory services for start-up and commission in addition to the training of maintenance and operational personnel.
Siemens VAI and the regional company DP Siemens Ukraine will assist and advise ArcelorMittal Kryviy Rih with work related to the supplies and services ordered locally for foundations, buildings, steel construction, building installations and cranes. Siemens Ukraine will act as “general designer” for the overall project and prepare the documentation required for approval by Ukrainian authorities.