Walking Beam Furnace
A state-of-the-art, energy-efficient furnace where slabs are pre-heated prior to heading to the hot-strip mill.
Nearly $49 million was invested in this new furnace, which increases quality and productivity while reducing operating, maintenance and energy costs.
The furnace allows Severstal Warren to roll longer slabs (from 28 feet to up to 33.5 feet) and meet market demand for 1,000 PIW coil sizes (compared with the previous 850 PIW maximum). In addition, the furnace enhances quality by providing consistent, uniformly heated slabs for rolling and reducing surface defects such as scale and skid tears.
The walking beam furnace replaced the three pusher-type furnaces that were in operation at the strip mill. The furnace employs combustion control technology that reduces electricity usage by 25 percent per ton produced and, overall, reduces fuel consumption by 37.5 percent per ton produced.
The new furnace is the centerpiece of the strategic plan to increase margins, grow custom product business and enhance operational efficiency. Operating costs are reduced through improved energy efficiency, better material yields and lower maintenance costs while product offerings will increase due to the furnace’s expanded capabilities.