The companies said the upgrades will include three LD converters (BOF), four single ladle furnaces (LFs) and one vacuum degasser (VD). The new level 2 process optimization system, the “steelmaking backbone,” will integrate all the units into a single digital architecture. This will connect metallurgical, operational and planning data, allowing operators and metallurgists to have a shared interface and standardized procedures. 

“We are excited to embark on this significant level 2 project with Primetals Technologies as part of our steel plant's digital transformation. These advanced automation solutions will enhance data integration across our facility, making our production processes smarter, more efficient and more sustainable,” said Sefa Çetinkaya, operational technologies manager at Kardemir. 

Kardemir said the purpose of the project is to reduce reblows in the BOF shop, lower energy usage in secondary metallurgy, improve yield and boost overall productivity.