Posted on 16 Dec 2016
Converter components will be replaced and modernized Change of converter tilting drive bearings Larger reaction volume, improved metallurgical process Primetals Technologies has received an order from Compania Siderurgica Huachipato S.A. (CAP ACERO) to replace LD (BOF) converter #2 system in its Talcahuano, Chile works, which after 40 years has reached the end of its service life. The new converter will have a tapping weight of 100 metric tons and a larger reaction volume, which will improve the metallurgical process. Converter vessel and trunnion ring will be suspended by the maintenance-free Vaicon Link 2.0. This flexible, rugged suspension system minimizes stresses caused by heat-related deformations, ensures balanced load pick-up, and has a long service life. The tilting drive will be equipped with new bearings. The new converter is scheduled to come into operation in November 2017. Primetals Technologies is responsible for the detail engineering of the new converter vessel and the trunnion ring. The scope of supply includes the converter suspension, new converter bearings and tilting drive bearings. The project will be executed under the leadership of Primetals Technologies, which will work together with VAPOR Industrial S.A., Santiago de Chile, Chile. Primetals Technologies will be responsible for planning and designing of the new plant components, the assembly engineering, supervising the disassembly and reassembly, and training the operating and maintenance personnel. VAPOR Industrial S.A. will handle the manufacture and transport of the plant components. Compania Siderurgica Huachipato S.A. is based in Talcahuano, Chile, and was founded in 1950. It produces long products, mainly for the mining and construction industries, and wire rods. LD(BOF) Converter at Compania Siderurgica Huachipato S.A. (CAP ACERO) in Talcahuano, Chile. Primetals Technologies will replace converter #2 (Photo courtesy of CAP ACERO).
