WCA November 2024

Industry News

Modernisation of blast furnace successfully completed SMS has commissioned a new Paul Wurth Parallel Hopper Bell Less Top® (BLT) in blast furnace A at Salzgitter Flachstahl AG. As part of the SMS upgrade, the BLT system from 1977 was replaced by a new Paul Wurth Parallel Hopper system, which features an array of technical and operational enhancements. The new design offers better maintenance options through improved access and dismantling aids. To improve operational efficiency, the modernisation of the top charging system in blast furnace A included the overhaul and integration of key components such as the spherical maintenance valve, valve actuator, material hopper and distribution rocker. The upgrade also included a new primary equalising system with reconfigured pipework, valves, and a hydraulic and greasing station, which was supplied in a turnkey container. Sound emissions have been reduced with the installation of a new silencer, contributing to more environmentally friendly operation. The equalising system’s piping has been simplified, streamlining the process. The new construction provides a higher level of sustainability and lowers environmental impact, as less dust is produced and less blast furnace gas is discharged into the atmosphere.

Lifting procedure of key components of the BLT system

area of 50 square metres, further facilitating maintenance and operational tasks. Franziskus Lutwin, project manager at SMS group, commented, “We are delighted with the successful completion of our latest project, which builds on the solid foundation of the positive relationship we established with Salzgitter during the relining of blast furnace B in 2015. It fills me with great pride to see how many improvements we were able to implement over the course of this project.” René Rockstroh, general manager of the blast furnace department at Salzgitter, said, “We are completely satisfied with the new solutions of the bell-less top design. All our demands and expectations were implemented. The collaboration with the team at SMS group was excellent and very collegial. After blowing in the furnace, the installed equipment works without any problems.” SMS group GmbH www.sms-group.com

The newly constructed hydraulic room provides more space, better access and an optimised system layout that covers an

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