JSW Vijayanagar Metallics Ltd commissioned its Blast Furnace at its integrated steel plant at Vijayanagar with a capacity of 4.5 MTPA

Consequent to blast furnace reaching threshold utilization towards end of September and stabilised operations in this week, JSW Vijayanagar Metallics Limited (JVML), a wholly owned subsidiary of JSW Steel Limited has today announced the successful commissioning of its Blast Furnace with a capacity of 4.5 MTPA at Vijayanagar in the State of Karnataka. This is a significant milestone in the commissioning of the Integrated JVML 5 MTPA facility. The commissioning, carried out by JVML further strengthens JSW Steel's position as one of the world's leading steel manufacturers.

The new blast furnace, one of the largest in India, marks a major step forward in JSW Steel's strategic expansion at Vijayanagar. The increased capacity will also help reduce India's reliance on steel imports, strengthening the domestic industry and contributing to economic growth. The expansion supports the Indian government's initiatives such as Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat, which aim to foster selfreliance in critical industries.

Key Specifications of Blast Furnace-5:

- Furnace Size: 5,339 cubic meters
- Annual Capacity: Up to 4.5 MTPA (Million Tonnes Per Annum)
- Energy Efficiency: Includes a 24 MW power generation facility utilising a Top Gas Pressure Recovery Turbine (TRT)
- Technology: High-pressure (3 bar) and high-temperature (1250°C) operational capabilities, enabling maximum coal injection and reduced energy consumption

Built using cutting-edge technology, the furnace features advanced equipment, including stoves, blowers, top charging systems, resulting in optimum specific fuel consumption and critical refractories for enhanced campaign life.

This furnace is equipped with most modern equipments such as Online 3D Burden profilometer and Top Cameras. It also has integrated advanced process assistances system including process models, and programing tools for efficient operations making this blast furnace as one of the most efficient and mightiest super large Blast Furnace. This state-of-the-art facility incorporates advanced technology and energyefficient features, supporting JSW's goal of sustainable growth and enhanced production efficiency.

Additionally, it is equipped with advanced environmental control systems, including gas cleaning (Cyclone & Venturi scrubbers), cast house and stock house dedusting systems, and a slag granulation system. These systems underscore JSW Steel's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

Fast Commissioning Timeline

The commissioning of Blast Furnace was completed in just 42 months, one of the fastest timelines for a furnace of its size. This achievement highlights JVML's project execution capabilities and the advanced technology used in the expansion. The efficient commissioning process has set the stage for the JVML's facility to become one of the most advanced steel plants globally.

Vijayanagar Journey and Integration with JVML's 5 MTPA Facility

This new blast furnace is part of the broader 5 MTPA integrated steel facility being developed by JVML. The Hot Strip Mill (HSM), which is part of this integrated facility was commissioned and commercial production and sales have already commenced in March 2024,. The Sinter Plant and Steel Melt Shop are under various stages of commissioning for progressive ramp up in Q4 of FY25. Once fully operational, the total crude steel capacity at Vijayanagar will increase to 17.5 MTPA, contributing to JSW Steel's overall consolidated crude steel capacity rising from 29.2 MTPA to 34.2 MTPA.

Sajjan Jindal, Chairman and Managing Director of JSW Steel, commented on the commissioning, "The successful commissioning of Blast Furnace by JVML is a significant achievement for JSW Steel and a crucial step in supporting India's infrastructure growth. With the expansion at Vijayanagar, we are now better positioned to meet the growing demand for high-quality steel domestically and globally. This milestone also aligns with our vision to contribute to India's self-reliance in critical industries."

The newly commissioned furnace will produce high-quality steel that caters to key sectors such as infrastructure, automotive, and construction, which are driving India's industrial growth.

Commitment to Sustainability

JSW Steel remains focused on reducing its environmental footprint while expanding production. The newly commissioned blast furnace is designed to optimise energy efficiency, with the inclusion of a Top Gas Pressure Recovery Turbine (TRT) that generates 24 MW of power. This aligns with JSW Steel's long-term sustainability goals, including its ambition to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

Jayant Acharya, Joint MD & CEO of JSW Steel, added, "This commissioning reflects our commitment to innovation, efficiency, and sustainability. The advanced technology used in this project helps us reduce fuel consumption, energy consumption and environmental impact while increasing our production capacity."

Acknowledging JSWites

The commissioning of Blast Furnace 5 was made possible through the efforts of JSW Steel's workforce, known as JSWites. Their dedication and expertise were instrumental in achieving this significant milestone.

PK Murugan, President and Plant Head of JSW Steel Vijayanagar, remarked, "The commissioning of this blast furnace reflects the hard work of every JSWite. Their dedication is the foundation of our success, and this achievement wouldn't have been possible without their efforts."

Looking Ahead

The commissioning is a key milestone in JSW Steel's long-term strategy to enhance production capacity and operational efficiency which will further solidify JSW Steel's leadership in the steel industry, both in India and globally. With this expansion, JSW Steel continues to support India's infrastructure goals, contributing to the country's growth while maintaining its focus on sustainability and operational excellence.

Shares of JSW Steel Limited was last trading in BSE at Rs. 1033.10 as compared to the previous close of Rs. 1039.80. The total number of shares traded during the day was 194892 in over 12379 trades.

The stock hit an intraday high of Rs. 1063.35 and intraday low of 1027.10. The net turnover during the day was Rs. 203796653.00.

Source : Equity Bulls

Keywords

JSWSteel INE019A01038 JSWVijayanagarMetallics Commissioned BlastFurnace