Siemens VAI Metals Technologies will supply the ArcelorMittal steelworks in Kryviy Rih, Ukraine, with secondary metallurgical equipment, a six-strand billet caster, and the requisite auxiliary systems.
The order also includes a comprehensive service agreement under which Siemens VAI and DP Siemens Ukraine will provide services related to the local supply and service contracts for construction and installation, and prepare the documentation required for approvals by Ukrainian authorities.
The new plants are designed for an annual production of 1.4 million tonnes of billets and are scheduled to come into operation in September 2011. ArcelorMittal Kryviy Rih has projected overall investment costs at $100 million, of which the Siemens VAI order is worth around €30 million.
"Worldwide today more than 80% of long products are being produced using continuous casting technology,” said Jean Jouet, CEO of ArcelorMittal Kryviy Rih. “As our strategy is focused on modernization and efficiency improvement, we are moving to this modern state-of-the-art–technology."
With the new billet line, ArcelorMittal Kryviy Rih plans to cut both specific energy consumption and pollution emissions by 10% for each tonne of steel produced. At the same time, yield is expected to be increased by 10%.
The secondary metallurgical equipment to be supplied by Siemens comprises a new ladle furnace and the complete alloying facilities, including the weighing and transport systems. An integrated basic automation system (Level 1) for the furnace, alloying systems, and dust-cleaning system will ensure optimal interaction between all plant components. The ladle furnace will also be equipped with a Level 2 process-optimization system, enabling ArcelorMittal to produce a wider range of steel grades.
The new, six-strand billet caster will produce billets with a 150- x 150-mm cross section. The casting plant will be fitted with technology packages to ensure high product quality, including Diamold high-speed casting molds, Dynaflex mold oscillators, the LevCon mold-level control system, and a Level 2 process-optimization system. Siemens will also supply a ladle turret and tundish cars for the casting area.
Siemens will be responsible for engineering, installation, advisory services for start-up and commission in addition to the training of maintenance and operational personnel.
ArcelorMittal Kryviy Rih is a subsidiary of the ArcelorMittal Group, headquartered in Luxembourg. The company covers the entire process chain from ore extraction to steel production, and is the largest steel producer in the Ukraine.
The Siemens Industry Sector (Erlangen, Germany) is a leading international supplier of environmentally friendly production, transportation, building and lighting technologies. The Sector comprises six divisions: Building Technologies, Drive Technologies, Industry Automation, Industry Solutions, Mobility and Osram. With around 207,000 employees worldwide (September 30), Siemens Industry achieved in fiscal year 2009 total sales of approximately €35 billion.
The Siemens Industry Solutions Division (Erlangen, Germany) is one of the world's leading solution and service providers for industrial and infrastructure facilities comprising the business activities of Siemens VAI Metals Technologies, Water Technologies and Industrial Technologies. Activities include engineering and installation, operation and service for the entire life cycle. With around 31,000 employees worldwide (September 30), Siemens Industry Solutions posted sales of €6.8 billion in fiscal year 2009.