The Russian steel producer Severstal Cherepovets plant, a part of Severstal Russian Steel, has announced that in the framework of the investment project directed at the reconstruction of HDG production, it is currently carrying out preparation works for the installation of new equipment.
In 2007, Severstal Cherepovets plant started the implementation of its Ruble 2 billion ($80.99 million) project aimed at the complete reconstruction of the mill's HDG production so as to double its annual production capacity to 400,000 mt. In addition, under the scope of the project, Severstal Cherepovets will construct a second HDG line with an annual production capacity of 200,000 mt.
The installation of the new equipment at the HDG production facilities in the first phase of the implementation of the three-phase project will commence in September 2008.
The second phase of the reconstruction of HDG production is planned for June-July 2009, during which the company plans to modernize several supplementary equipment items. During the last phase of reconstruction, the HDG mill will be stopped for 45 days to carry out the main modernization works. By September 2009, Severstal Cherepovets plant plans to commence the startup works for HDG production, while in December of the same year the HDG mill will be put back into operation.