Ladle Furnace Upgrade Order for Outokumpu Stainless USA
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM. Primetals Technologies has secured a contract to supply a 180-ton twin ladle furnace to Outokumpu Stainless USA. The new furnace will be installed at Outokumpu’s facility in Calvert, Alabama, replacing an existing ladle treatment stand from 2012. This upgrade will reduce the plant’s carbon footprint, improve temperature control, and provide greater operational flexibility.
Enhanced Operational Flexibility
At the Calvert plant, Outokumpu melts up to 100 percent stainless steel scrap in an electric arc furnace (EAF), followed by processing in an argon oxygen decarburization (AOD) converter. Upgrading one of two ladle treatment stands to the twin ladle furnace will increase flexibility in the AOD process by adding electrical heating capacity after the converter. The installation will utilize the plant’s original layout and foundation to ensure smooth integration.
The scope of supply includes key mechanical equipment such as a water-cooled ladle cover integrated with the swing gantry system, Primetals Technologies’ patented electrode conducting arm with high-current system, automated argon lancing equipment, a hydraulic system, Melt Expert electrode control system, a power solution, and Level 1 automation.
Increased Productivity
Melt Expert from Primetals Technologies enables dynamic control over the melting process and increases process stability. The system improves furnace productivity by addressing reduced throughput and efficiency. It also lowers energy consumption, helping to mitigate the high energy costs associated with the melting process.
Outokumpu Stainless USA and Primetals Technologies have a long-standing partnership, including the design and supply of a state-of-the-art stainless steelmaking plant. The single-line facility, with a 160-ton EAF, 180-ton AOD converter, twin 180-ton treatment stands, and a single-strand slab caster, was successfully commissioned and received final acceptance in 2013.
About Outokumpu
Outokumpu is accelerating the green transition as the global leader in sustainable stainless steel. Its business is based on the circular economy: Outokumpu’s products are made from 95 percent recycled materials, which it then turns into fully recyclable stainless steel. This steel is utilized in various applications across society, including infrastructure, mobility, and household appliances. In the US, Outokumpu operates America’s most advanced stainless-steel mill in Calvert, Alabama. With an extensive range of products and industry-leading technical support and services, Outokumpu is the second-largest producer of sustainable stainless steel in the United States.
