OREANDA-NEWS. Current modernization of the production process at Ilyich Iron and Steel Works involved modernization of continuous casting machine (CCM-2). The whole repair cost is around UAH 2 mln. The unit has been subject to planned renovation and implementation of new technologies makes possible to increase the overhaul period twofold.

Improved reliability of the CCM and the increase of the overhaul period were achieved due to use of corrosion resistance support structures, extended roll rigidity as well as to amendments made in the water decontamination system for cooling hot steel.

The repair involved replacement of worn parts, modernization of some parts, inspection and repair of mechanical, electrical and power equipment, whereas new technologies were used for fine adjustment of the gears and axes of the unit - all measurements were made using an electronic tacheometer.

The CCM No 2 was put into operation in 1993 and its production capacity is over 3500 t of slab ingots of high quality per day. With the project annual capacity of 750 000 t the unit's production rate has been increased to 1 mln t. and over.

“The steel plant strengthened its capability to resist negative trends in economy and the steel industry after integration into Metinvest Group. Earlier, in 2008, most of the investment projects have been frozen. Today, being a part of Metinvest Group, we can be sure in steady operation and further development of the steel plant. Currently, Ilyich Steel Works implements various projects related to modernization of production, ecology and advancement of Mariupol. And these priorities are steady-going”, - Yurii Zinchenko, General Director of Ilyich Iron and Steel Works said.