Vacuum Oxygen Decarburization plant: Baosteel grants FAC to SMS

Baosteel Desheng Stainless Steel Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of China Baowu Steel Group based in Fuzhou, has awarded the Final Acceptance Certificate (FAC) to SMS group for the successful completion of a Vacuum Oxygen Decarburization (VOD) plant. This development marks a significant step forward in Baosteel Desheng’s strategy to expand its high-grade stainless steel production capacity, enhancing the company's ability to meet increasing market demands.

The newly installed VOD system plays a pivotal role in boosting the production capacity of vacuum-treated steels to 417,000 tons annually. With a capacity of 120 tons per heat, the advanced VOD unit enables the production of specialty steels with exceptionally low impurity levels. This improvement is expected to support industries with stringent material requirements, including automotive, aerospace, and construction sectors.

The seamless integration of the VOD system into Baosteel Desheng’s existing steel mill infrastructure was achieved through close collaboration between SMS group and Baosteel Engineering and Technology Group Co., Ltd. The project, executed under a turnkey contract signed in June 2020, encompassed all stages from design and manufacturing to installation and commissioning. The meticulous planning and execution of each phase ensured adherence to the highest standards of quality and safety.

Li Jiancheng, Project Manager of Baosteel Engineering and Technology Group Co., Ltd., emphasized SMS group's professionalism throughout the project. “SMS group's commitment to excellence was evident in their ability to deliver on all project milestones, culminating in the successful completion and handover of the VOD system,” he said. He noted that rigorous testing and evaluation processes confirmed that the VOD system met all contractual obligations and performance criteria.

Matthias Oesterwind, Senior Project Manager Metallurgy at SMS group, highlighted the broader impact of the project on the steel industry. “This project underscores our ability to deliver innovative metallurgical solutions that meet the evolving needs of the global steel industry. It reinforces our reputation as a trusted partner in the development and implementation of state-of-the-art steelmaking technologies,” Oesterwind stated.

Source and Photo: SMS Group