The major overhaul of LURGI 552 A induration machine has been completed at Northern Iron Ore. A total of UAH 14 mln  was allocated for the implementation of the planned scope of work.

Despite the war and ongoing economic challenges, Metinvest's Integrated Iron Ore continues to modernise its equipment and maintain production capacities at its Kryvyi Rih facilities. In early January, the specialists from Pelletising Shop No. 2 at Northern Iron Ore began the scheduled upgrade of LURGI 552 induration machine, and by the end of the month the equipment had already been returned to operation.

Maintenance specialists repaired the mechanical equipment at the pelletising, induration and screening sections, and replaced the conveyor belts. A full inspection of the conveyor systems across the machine’s entire process line was also carried out. The steel structures of the induration machine’s furnace were overhauled, including the replacement of the water‑cooled elements.

A partial replacement of damaged lining blocks was carried out in both the induration and cooling zones, using high‑quality materials that will ensure reliable long‑term protection of the machine’s metal steel structures from high temperatures.

“The main objective of the major overhaul is to maintain the productivity of the induration machine and to ensure stable quality characteristics of the finished product,” said Eduard MATYTSYN, Head of Pelletising Shop No. 2 at Northern Iron Ore. “The measures implemented will enable the induration machine to operate at its design capacity of 465 tonnes of high‑quality pellets per hour. In addition, the completed scope of work will reduce specific energy and resource consumption during production, improve equipment efficiency, enhance employee safety and create better working conditions for the team.”

At the plant, it was noted that thorough preparation for the major overhaul and the well‑coordinated cooperation of all departments ensured the high‑quality and timely completion of the planned scope of work.