Salzgitter’s BF “B” reline has been finished within 80 days, ahead of the 85-days schedule. Paul Wurth had received an order from SZFG in August 2014 which foresaw a complex job of modifications and replacement of components for the existing BLT. As one of the technical highlights of the new system, Paul Wurth’s new spherical maintenance valve replaces the traditional goggle valve above the chute transmission gearbox. This results in by far easier and quicker maintenance on both scheduled and unexpected shutdowns. The newly installed components include the valve actuation unit (VAU) with lower material gates and seal valves, the pressure equalising and relief valves, and two material hoppers.
In addition to reconditioning the main gearbox, engineering and supply of the equipment, Paul Wurth’s scope included the elaboration of a deeply detailed erection instruction for the BLT, site coordination and erection supervision as well as commissioning of the newly composed top charging system. After the blast furnace restart, the system underwent a 4 weeks performance test at 100% availability. With regard to all other obligations under this project being fulfilled, subsequently, the customer issued the Final Acceptance Certificate immediately.
