Kametstal has upgraded a key component of its pulverized coal fuel system

The overhaul of grinding circuit No. 2 is expected to improve equipment reliability and reduce fuel consumption

At the Kametstal steelworks, part of the Metinvest Group, a major overhaul of grinding circuit No. 2 of the pulverized coal fuel (PCF) complex has been completed, marking an important step in the modernization of blast furnace production. The upgrade is aimed at improving equipment reliability and energy efficiency, according to a press release.

PFC is a key component of the blast furnace process, as it reduces the consumption of natural gas and coke. Injecting finely ground coal directly into the furnace tuyeres increases unit productivity and reduces fuel consumption.

During the repair, the main focus was on restoring the service life of critical components. In particular, the mill roll liners were replaced, the geometry of the grinding table was restored, and the internal segments of the armor were refurbished. In addition, specialists calibrated the grinding rollers, repaired the conveyor equipment, as well as the metal structures of the car tipper and the coal unloading area.

Key components of the bag filter were also updated, the pipelines and valves of the cleaning system were inspected, and an audit of the electrical equipment and high-voltage testing of the cable lines were conducted.

As noted by Yevgen Podgorny, Deputy Head of the Blast Furnace Shop for Engineering, the reliability of the PVP directly impacts production economics and process consistency. According to him, the modernization will improve the system’s wear resistance and the quality of pulverized coal fuel preparation, which is critical for the stable operation of blast furnaces.

As a reminder, Kametstal previously launched a program of major overhauls of its main production equipment for 2026. The first major phase was the overhaul of Converter No. 2 in the converter shop.