Since the fall of 2022, Bosnian steelmaker ArcelorMittal Zenica has had a new 125-ton LD converter (BOF) in operation at its plant in Zenica, Bosnia-Herzegovina. The converter was supplied by Primetals Technologies. The vessel shape was optimized by Primetals Technologies as part of the project, increasing the converter's reaction volume by almost 30 percent. The use of new technology also led to a reduction in the tapping sequence time, resulting in a higher capacity of the production line. ArcelorMittal Zenica is thus able to produce a wider range of steel grades.
"This is a very successful project - everything went smoothly and within the expected time frame. Thanks to the new solution, the reaction volume has increased and the converter has shorter tapping times. These are strong advantages for us," said Adnan Topalovic, Head of CAPEX and Projects at ArcelorMittal Zenica.
Convincing suspension system
The scope of supply from Primetals Technologies included as core components the converter vessel, the support ring, and the maintenance-free Vaicon Link 2.0 suspension system. Primetals Technologies was responsible for the engineering, project management, and quality assurance, and together with the consortium partner, the company provided consulting support for the construction work and implementation. One of the main reasons why ArcelorMittal Zenica chose Primetals Technologies as its supplier was the suspension system.
"We had many problems with the suspension system of the previous converter. We investigated the best possible option and had a choice between a conventional slat type and Primetals Technologies' suspension system. Feedback from other steelmakers showed us that Vaicon Link 2.0 had the best ratings," explains Adnan Topalovic.
Higher productivity
Not only does the new suspension system benefit the steelmaker, but the new converter technology has many advantages as well. The old plant had frequent slag ejection, but thanks to the optimized shape of the new vessel, this problem has been eliminated. It also produces a higher yield, which contributes to higher productivity.
Difficult construction conditions
The tight schedule of the project was additionally severely affected by Covid-19-related constraints. Nevertheless, the construction managed to meet all milestones on time. Issues that arose during this time were quickly addressed and resolved by teams from both groups, as both sides had set up weekly meetings. This meant that communication was characterized by short response times.
