NLMK Group commissions SMS to supply a thick slab caster
NLMK Group has contracted SMS Group to supply a new thick slab caster for its steel mill No. 2 in Lipetsk in Central Russia. The new plant will replace a two-strand caster, which was supplied by SMS in 1976, and will be built in the same place. The continuous caster is to be completely rebuilt from the ladle turret to the exit section, and will be equipped with state-of-the-art continuous casting technology. A few steel structures and foundation areas will remain as they are. The new plant will be designed as a bow-type caster and offer a host of benefits, particularly for the casting of slabs which are made from crack-sensitive steel grades and are over 300 millimeters thick.
SMS Group’s scope of supply comprises the basic and detail engineering, and the mechanical and electrical systems for the continuous caster. It also includes a ladle turret, adapted to the existing foundation and shop configuration, molds with hydraulic oscillation, strand guide with 25 segments, the relevant interchangeable parts, and the exit section. The supervision of the erection and commissioning is also part of the scope of supply. The first cast is scheduled for December 2019. The width range produced on the continuous caster is to be extended from a previous maximum of 2,200 millimeters to 2,800 millimeters, and the thickness range from 355 to 400 millimeters. The plant will be designed for an annual production capacity of maximum 2 million tons.
Source: Wire Bulletin
