For the first time in Ukraine, the rolling mill workers of Kamet-Steel have started production of channel No.16 using the tube billet mill. The mastering of new shaped sections continues as part of the recovery programme for Metinvest's product mix, partially lost because of the war.
Channel 16U is a high-margin product in demand on the market and widely used in construction, as well as in the machine-building and shipbuilding industries. This type of product was produced at Metinvest's enterprises before the war.
A bold decision to start production of such challenging shaped sections using the tube billet mill has been made for the first time in Ukraine. After all, Kamet-Steel's tube billet mill, according to its design parameters, is intended for the manufacture of round and square billets. However, in 2023, the workers managed to master the production of shaped sections SVP-27 and SVP-33. This unique experience came in handy while developing process solutions to accomplish the task.
The success of channel production is a result of the synergy of the rolling shop's team efforts ‒ from managers, engineers, and leading specialists from the calibration bureau and roll-turning section to operators and rollers of the hot-rolling mill ‒ implemented through a comprehensive approach:
◾ Engineering: developed unique design drawings and calibration projects.
◾ Modernisation: design modifications were made to the existing mill process line. Specifically, the rolling roll chocks were upgraded to stabilise the hardness and geometric parameters of the rolling stands along the entire length. This also allowed an extension of the service life of the rolling rolls.
◾ Process optimisation: determined stable operating modes for replaceable equipment, carried out roll calibration, and tested optimal reduction modes on stand 900.
As part of the investment project, a 12-metre chain fixed cooling bed was installed and commissioned at the site, with the equipment of pusher PU No. 14 redesigned. The cooling bed enables the transportation, cooling, and stacking of long and shaped sections, preventing their deformation.
Artem LAPTIIEV, Deputy Head of the Rolling Shop at the Tube Billet Mill Site, said:
"Once again, we have done what was previously considered impossible in the Ukrainian steel industry: we are the first to have mastered the production of a shaped section, namely channel 16U, using the tube billet mill. The first batches with a total volume of 358 tonnes successfully passed certification for compliance with DSTU standards and received a positive assessment for quality from Ukrainian customers. For us, this success is a springboard for the further expansion of the long product portfolio. This type of section strengthens Metinvest's position in the segment of in-demand, high-margin products for the construction industry, which will play a vital role in the post-war reconstruction of Ukraine."
