The Russian pipe producer TMK plans in 2013 to complete its project for the construction of the first electric arc furnace (EAF-150) at its subsidiary Taganrog Metallurgical Works (Tagmet), Interfax news agency has reported.
The construction of the new 950,000 metric ton capacity EAF-150 at Tagmet commenced in 2007 within the framework of TMK's investment project of Ruble 19 billion (about $616 million) for the period up to 2014.
The new EAF-150, supplied by German plantmaker SMS Siemag, will allow Tagmet to close its three open-hearth furnaces, with a total capacity of 600,000 mt per year, and to increase its production, expand its steel production range and to improve steel quality. The new EAF, the ladle furnace, vacuum degasser and continuous billet caster will provide the full cycle of a modern steel-smelting complex at Tagmet, which will fully cover the feedstock needs of its pipe facilities.
Currently, the general construction and design work for the EAF project are being carried out at Tagmet, while the installation works are scheduled to begin in 2011.