Kametstal has completed a major overhaul of Converter No. 2

The 2026 major overhaul program began with the replacement of 860 tons of refractory materials and the refurbishment of key components of the unit

At the Kametstal steel mill, part of the Metinvest Group, a program of major overhauls of key production equipment for 2026 has begun. The first major phase was the overhaul of Converter No. 2 in the converter shop, according to a press release.

The key task was to replace 860 tons of refractory lining that had reached the end of its service life. Prior to this, repair crews restored the steel structures responsible for stabilizing the converter body. Specifically, segments of the throat, or the so-called “helmet,” were replaced to securely fasten the upper belt of the unit. Elements of the support ring, which ensures the stability of the converter’s bottom section, were also updated.

Special truck-mounted crane equipment was brought in to install large-scale assemblies directly at the repair site. This made it possible to precisely position and install massive components within the limited space of the shop. Special attention was paid during the repair to restoring the integrity of the converter body surface.

As part of the overhaul, mechanical equipment that directly affects the quality and efficiency of the steelmaking process was also updated. In the power-related portion of the work, efforts focused on cleaning the gas exhaust system to improve the filtration quality of converter gases.

In addition, the OKG-130 boiler’s drum separator was repaired, with an overhaul and restoration of its key components and parts.

The work carried out is intended to ensure the reliable and uninterrupted operation of the unit during the production cycle, as well as to maintain the stability of the steelmaking process.

As a reminder, in 2025, Kametstal carried out the most ambitious overhaul program since the start of the war. The most important projects included the overhaul of blast furnace No. 9, a comprehensive overhaul of the main equipment of both converters, the No. 1 ladle furnace, the No. 1 continuous casting machine (CCM-1), and the section rolling and pipe billet mills.