Ukraine-based ArcelorMittal Kryviy Rih is proceeding with the implementation of its investment plan to increase its billet production capacity and to expand its product portfolio. The company has announced the start of hot trials at its new twin-system ladle furnace and the continuous casting machine (CCM) No. 2. In addition, the producer is working to achieve the designed capacity of its CCM No. 3, which is also a part of the investment worth over $160 million, SteelOrbis has learned.
According to the official statement, the joint capacity of the two CCMs is 2.8 million mt per year, which will be a sizeable addition to the already operational 1.2 million mt capacity CCM No. 1. In addition to higher manufacturing capabilities, with the new equipment ArcelorMittal Kryviy Rih will able to produce 130 mm x 130 mm square billet, which is in high demand in North Africa, in Morocco specifically. In addition, billet will be used as feedstock for the company’s own rebar production once the renovation works at the mill 250-4 are finished. With the usage of the cast billet, the company will be able to increase the efficiency of its rolling process and to improve finished product quality, SteelOrbis understands. In addition, it will become possible to partially idle the outdated blooming equipment.
German’s SMS Group is the supplier of the main equipment for the CCMs’ installation. In addition, the project involves over 25 large global supplying companies including Siemens, Weihua, and Borthhold.