The Business Bytes
Rourkela, November 17, 2024 (TBB Bureau): In a significant milestone for Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP), the newly rebuilt Coke Oven Battery No. 2 was inaugurated on Friday, marking a major achievement in the plant’s ongoing modernization efforts. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Atanu Bhowmick, Director In-Charge of RSP, who officially unveiled the state-of-the-art facility. The event saw participation from RSP executives and employees, reflecting the collective pride of Team RSP.
The newly reconstructed Coke Oven Battery No. 2 is a modern, energy-efficient, and environmentally friendly facility, built on the site of the original battery. It consists of 70 ovens, divided into two blocks, with a maximum capacity of 93 pushes per day after stabilization. The facility will handle a dry coal throughput of 0.53 Mtpa and produce 0.363 Mtpa of BF-grade coke, ensuring a reliable coke supply for hot metal production. Designed with advanced technology, the project emphasizes both operational excellence and sustainability.
One of the project’s key challenges was its execution as a brownfield initiative. Construction was carried out without disrupting operations in adjacent areas, ensuring continuous production. The rebuild involved the use of approximately 13,000 tons of refractory bricks, with the main structures supported by robust anchorage systems.
Additional standout features of the facility include advanced environmental conservation equipment, such as an on-man charging system, a double gas collecting main, a grit arrestor, a vapor spray system in the quenching tower, a dust suppression system in the guide car, and a hydro-jet door cleaning system. These technologies significantly reduce emissions and improve the overall workplace environment.
Speaking on the occasion, Bhowmick praised the teams for their dedication and expertise in completing the project. “This achievement highlights RSP’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technology while maintaining a strong focus on energy efficiency and environmental sustainability,” he said.
The commissioning of the rebuilt Coke Oven Battery No. 2 is set to further strengthen RSP’s production capacity while adhering to stringent environmental standards. This achievement reaffirms RSP’s position as a leader in the steel industry and its continued commitment to operational excellence.
