Kametstal is conducting a significant overhaul of its sintering machine No. 9, a critical part of its sinter production process. This is the largest equipment upgrade in recent years, involving mechanical, electrical, and engineering components, according to a company press release.
The overhaul is being carried out daily across all sections of the machine. Specialists from Kametstal’s repair shops, contractors, and employees from the sinter shop are all involved in the project. The primary objective is to extend the machine’s lifespan and improve its productivity.
Key tasks include the complete replacement of guide rails, stone-cast multicyclone blocks, and dust hoppers. While the dismantling of old parts has been completed, the installation of new components is now in progress.
A major focus is the mechanical renewal, which includes repairs to the sintering belt, sintering trolleys, seals, and rails. Additionally, vacuum chambers are being modernized, which will enhance both the quality of sinter and the overall efficiency of the unit.
On the electrical side, the exhauster motor is being replaced, and the cable infrastructure and control panels are being updated. Some older drives are being replaced with modern frequency converters.
“This is the largest overhaul in recent years. We expect to see not only increased productivity but also fewer emergency shutdowns,” said Andriy Koroteyev, Deputy Head of Engineering at the Sinter Shop. “Certain units, such as the 120 sintering trolleys and the exhauster engine, have been restored by our internal repair teams. We are also working with ZLMZ’s partners, who are handling repairs to the gearboxes for the machine’s main drives.”
As previously reported by GMK Center, Kametstal has also begun a major overhaul of another key unit, BOF vessel No. 1, as part of its 2025 overhaul program. The work on this unit focuses on upgrading the main equipment and power systems.