OREANDA-NEWS. March 14, 2011. Belarusian Steel Works (BMZ trademark) and Austrian Siemens VAI Metals Technologies GmbH signed a big agreement of set-up delivery for reconstruction of Continuous-Casting Machine No. 2 (CCM-2). The signing ceremony took place in Zhlobin.

The financial part of the contract is confidential, however, it is understood that the reconstruction of the equipment will attract foreign capital. The implementation of the project will increase the production of 125х125mm and 140х140mm cast by almost 50%. The equipment will provide for the production of up to 1.2 million tonnes of steel per year (today – 856,000). The new equipment will be fitted with the latest automatic devices.

The investment project will be implemented in phases and completed within two years. Upgrade of the CCM-2 is part of the comprehensive modernization program designed for 2011-2015.

Belarusian Steel Works was founded in 1984. The company produces cast billets, structural shapes, sections and reinforcing bars, metal cord and other kinds of wire. This is one of the most export-oriented enterprises in Belarus. Exports exceed 85% of the total output. The company exports its products to 71 countries. The plant employs more than 12,000 people.

VAI Metals Technologies GmbH (formerly VOEST-Alpine Industrieanlagenbau GmbH) is a manufacturer of equipment for ferrous and nonferrous metallurgy. The company is headquartered in Linz, Austria. The company took part in the construction of the Belarusian Steel Works and later participated in numerous projects to modernize the company.