As part of its annual capital investment program, Metinvest Group’s Zaporizhstal steelworks is carrying out comprehensive overhaul of three groups of heating wells in the slab department of the hot rolling mill. The total cost of the work exceeds UAH 135 million, according to a press release.
According to the acting CEO of the plant, Taras Shevchenko, even though the enterprise is operating at only 75% of its capacity, the maintenance program is being implemented in full.
“Heating wells are an important part of the hot rolling process. The quality of the finished steel products, their mechanical properties, and compliance with customer standards depend on the stability of the temperature regime and the uniformity of the heating of the billets,” he emphasized.
In addition to Zaporizhstal specialists, specialists from the contracting organizations Etalonbudservis and MSK Prime are involved in the overhaul. The work involves dismantling worn refractories and replacing them with new linings, in particular those manufactured by Zaporizhogneupor. The total weight of materials used will exceed 2,200 tons.
In addition, mechanical and power equipment, communications, and shut-off valves are being updated, and about 900 tons of steel structures are being replaced. Hydraulic systems, automation, and temperature sensors will be repaired and modernized.
Heating wells provide thermal preparation of ingots weighing up to 16 tons before rolling into slabs and further thin rolling. The overhaul of this complex will significantly increase its reliability, reduce energy costs, and minimize the risk of unplanned technological stoppages.
In 2024, Zaporizhstal increased its production of commercial rolled steel products by 18.3% compared to 2023, to 2.43 million tons. Pig iron smelting amounted to 3.11 million tons (+14.3% y/y), steel – 2.89 million tons (+17.2% y/y).
As part of the 2024 investment program, the company allocated UAH 938 million to support its production capacities. In particular, funds were invested in the overhaul of key production units and the implementation of investment projects in occupational safety, information technology, and the social sphere. In 2025, investments are planned to increase to UAH 1.1 billion.
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