Primetals Technologies starts up first of three LD (BOF) converters at SSAB in Finland

In October, the first of three LD (BOF) converters supplied by Primetals Technologies commenced operation at the Raahe, Finland works of SSAB Europe Oy. With almost unchanged space requirements, the new converters have a larger reaction volume. The maintenance-free Vaicon Link 2.0, which will be used as the converter suspension, minimizes stress caused by heat-induced deformation and has a longer useful life. A blowing lance tip geometry adjusted to the new converter geometry, bottom stirring and a slag stopper improve the metallurgical properties of the steel produced. A new refractory concept will ensure long converter lining campaign. The converters are scheduled to come on stream in stages until August 2016.