Northern Iron Ore pelletizing production workers have launched the second induration machine to cope with additional orders from European partners. Thus, both machines are currently involved in the production of pellets – LURGI 552 A and LURGI 552 B.
The staff of the pellet production shop No. 2 (PPSh No.2) prepared to implement the plans approved for the beginning of the year in advance: In order to provide the reliability of the equipment operation in autumn, a range of repairs was carried out on both induration machines. At LURGI 552 B, equipment inspection and quarterly repairs were carried out, which included a standard range of activities to support the functions of the main units. That increased the machine reliability, ensured the fulfilment of quality indicators and made it possible to load it more today. Repair work was carried out last autumn on machine A as well. At the same time, a major overhaul of the rotary reclaimer, which ships finished products, was carried out.
In order to fulfill the order of European steelmakers on time, PPSh No.2, which usually uses induration machines "A" and "B" alternately, decided to launch both at once. In order to prepare the other machine for launch and for the actual launch itself, additional shifts of key employees on weekend and night shifts were organized in the shop. This mode of operation requires non-standard approaches and more resources, since both machines need to be maintained, and this is not easy in the cold season and in conditions of personnel shortage. The preparation for the launch itself lasts a week, the electrical and mechanical services of the shop check each mechanism, diagnose all the equipment. However, Northern Iron Ore workers understand priorities, accept changes in the regime to implement adjusted plans, and work towards a common goal. Currently, machines "A" and "B" operate with a capacity of 463 and 460 tons of high-quality pellets per hour.
"The market dictates its rules to us, and we must maintain the company's reputation and strengthen its competitiveness. It will now be more difficult for the teams of Northern Iron Ore shops, primarily PPSh No.2, due to changes in the regime, when specialists will launch the second induration machine for certain periods of time to fulfill the required volumes. But our people meet such challenges with dignity, realizing the responsibility for the common result – and this deserves sincere words of gratitude. The more products we produce, the more money we will earn, the more taxes the state will receive, which it will be able to allocate to critical areas of wartime," said Dmytro MALYKH, Metinvest Iron Ore Enrichment Works Production and Planning Director.
