Voestalpine Donawitz has successfully restarted its LD converter (BOF) No. 4 after a revamp by Primetals Technologies. The updated converter, with a tapping weight of 67 tons, replaces the previous one, which had reached the end of its lifespan.
Primetals Technologies handled the engineering and supply of key components, including the converter, trunnion ring, suspension system, slag shield, bottom stirring system, and air-cooling system. The upgrade also involved advisory services for construction and implementation.
The new air-cooling system has notably reduced the operating temperature of the trunnion ring and converter shell, extending equipment lifespan and minimizing maintenance compared to water-based systems. Another highlight is the Vaicon Link 2.0 maintenance-free suspension system, which ensures vessel stability while accommodating thermal expansion in all directions.
At the Donawitz facility, Voestalpine produces around 1.65 mln tons of high-quality raw steel annually, which is processed into billets. These products are then further processed by other Voestalpine group companies, including Voestalpine Rail Technology, Voestalpine Wire Technology, and Voestalpine Tubulars.