News & Press Releases
London, December 16, 2016
Primetals Technologies to replace converter for CAP ACERO in Chile
Converter components will be replaced and modernized
Change of converter tilting drive bearings
Larger reaction volume, improved metallurgical process
Primetals Technologies has received an order from Compania Siderurgica Huachipato S.A. (CAP ACERO) to replace LD (BOF) converter #2 system in its Talcahuano, Chile works, which after 40 years has reached the end of its service life. The new converter will have a tapping weight of 100 metric tons and a larger reaction volume, which will improve the metallurgical process. Converter vessel and trunnion ring will be suspended by the maintenance-free Vaicon Link 2.0. This flexible, rugged suspension system minimizes stresses caused by heat-related deformations, ensures balanced load pick-up, and has a long service life. The tilting drive will be equipped with new bearings. The new converter is scheduled to come into operation in November 2017.
Primetals Technologies is responsible for the detail engineering of the new converter vessel and the trunnion ring. The scope of supply includes the converter suspension, new converter bearings and tilting drive bearings.
The project will be executed under the leadership of Primetals Technologies, which will work together with VAPOR Industrial S.A., Santiago de Chile, Chile. Primetals Technologies will be responsible for planning and designing of the new plant components, the assembly engineering, supervising the disassembly and reassembly, and training the operating and maintenance personnel. VAPOR Industrial S.A. will handle the manufacture and transport of the plant components.
Compania Siderurgica Huachipato S.A. is based in Talcahuano, Chile, and was founded in 1950. It produces long products, mainly for the mining and construction industries, and wire rods.
LD(BOF) Converter at Compania Siderurgica Huachipato S.A. (CAP ACERO) in Talcahuano, Chile. Primetals Technologies will replace converter #2 (Photo courtesy of CAP ACERO).
Primetals Technologies, Limited, headquartered in London, United Kingdom, is a pioneer and world leader in the fields of engineering, plant building, and the provision of lifecycle services for the metals industry. The company offers a complete technology, product, and services portfolio that includes integrated electrics and automation, digitalization, and environmental solutions. This covers every step of the iron and steel production chain—from the raw materials to the finished product—and includes the latest rolling solutions for the nonferrous metals sector. Primetals Technologies is a joint venture of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and partners, with around 7,000 employees worldwide. To learn more about Primetals Technologies, visit the company website www.primetals.com.