Kametstal has begun major repairs on its 400/200 rolling mill

The rolling shop of the Kametstal metallurgical plant, part of the Metinvest Group, has begun modernizing the plant’s main rolling mill, 400/200, which will be operating at full capacity in 2025, according to a press release.

The main objectives of the repair work are to increase the reliability of key units and reduce energy costs. Specialists from the metallurgical equipment repair shop, together with colleagues from Zaporizhstal, are upgrading the 30-ton distribution gearbox of block BGV No. 10. This unit is responsible for the stable operation of wire rod production equipment, as well as related components that ensure uniform loading and roll quality.

At the same time, work is being carried out on the right-hand BGV No. 4 block. Here, the gearboxes are undergoing major repairs, and the bearings and other components of the rolling line are being replaced. It is in this section that one of the most sought-after and profitable items in Kametstal’s rolled product range is produced – rebar with a diameter of 8 to 20 mm.

A separate set of works is aimed at improving the energy efficiency of production. Water-cooling elements are being replaced on the heating furnace, which will improve water circulation and reduce heat loss due to refractory lining. In addition, the furnace vault is being insulated using modern thermal insulation materials. These measures are expected to reduce specific fuel consumption during rolled product production.

Thanks to the overhaul, Kametstal expects to increase the efficiency and stability of its main equipment while reducing energy costs.

As a reminder, Kametstal recently began a series of major overhauls of its main rolling equipment as part of its 2025 program. The first object of the large-scale upgrade was the pipe mill, which produces SVP-27 mine props and blanks for large-diameter grinding balls.

In total, the company plans to invest UAH 2.5 billion ($59.8 million) in production capacity in 2025, which is a record amount in recent years. The most ambitious project is the overhaul of DP-9, which received a third of the program’s total budget. In total, the plant plans to implement 114 investment projects during the year.