The Ukrainian coke producer Donetskkoks has announced the stoppage of two coke ovens at its Rutchensky section, adding that they may look at the prospects of carrying out reconstruction work at the ovens in question.
The management of Donetskkoks took the decision to shut down the two coke ovens following a technical audit conducted at the plant. According to the equipment inspection, the high level of deterioration of the coke ovens in question could result in an emergency situation, especially during the winter season.
Currently, due to the shortage of coking coal in the Ukrainian market, Donetskkoks' working capacities are at the lowest possible level. Given the bad weather conditions, the undersupply of coking coal for the ovens may lead to unpredictable consequences, including an accident, a Donetskkoks representative stated. Therefore, the decision has been taken to stop production work at these ovens, with the prospect of modernization work being carried out on them in the future.