Kametstal Continuous Casting Machine No. 1 Reconstruction Enhances Precision and Efficiency

Kametstal Continuous Casting Machine No. 1 Reconstruction Improves Steel Production

Kametstal has completed the reconstruction of continuous casting machine No. 1 (CCM-1) at its steel plant, part of the Metinvest Group. Moreover, the upgrade focused on pull-straightening devices, ensuring stable billet movement and precise cutting. As a result, domestic and European customers can now receive higher-quality billets with improved dimensional accuracy.

The second stage of the reconstruction included installing new motor-gearboxes with thermal shielding across seven streams of the CBRI-1. Meanwhile, encoders were added to all upper motors to stabilize workpiece speed, increasing cutting accuracy and feedback control. Additionally, the upgrade was executed without additional downtime, maintaining continuous billet production during the technological pause.

This reconstruction brought multiple technical and economic advantages. Specifically, the service life of motor reducers increased several times, cutting electricity consumption by 1.2 kWh per casting. Furthermore, the optimized pulling and straightening devices reduced steel waste, enhanced efficiency, and ensured reliable operations.

Kametstal Investments Strengthen Operational Reliability and Energy Efficiency

The continuous improvement program reflects Kametstal’s broader 2025 investment initiative. In addition, the company recently began overhauling the coke oven gas pipeline in the coking chemical products section. This measure aims to improve safety, reliability, and energy efficiency, aligning with the company’s commitment to operational excellence.

Kametstal’s reconstruction of CCM-1 demonstrates how targeted upgrades in steelmaking equipment can improve both production precision and cost efficiency. As a result, the plant strengthens its competitiveness in European and domestic markets while reducing energy and material consumption.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

Kametstal’s CCM-1 reconstruction illustrates the strategic value of modernizing key steelmaking assets. Furthermore, upgrades to motor-gearboxes and encoders showcase how precision and energy efficiency directly impact operational costs. SuperMetalPrice expects similar initiatives across European steel producers as they seek improved reliability, reduced waste, and lower energy consumption.