Challenges and Opportunities for Long Product Speciality Steels in India

Metallic and operating cost as well as specific energy consumption are the key to long term viability of steel plants. Usha Martin achieved the highest directly reduced iron (DRI) rotary kiln campaign life which is a good case study for Indian steel makers who consume large quantities of DRI produced through the rotary kiln route. The factors affecting rotary kiln life and how the kiln life was extended at M/s Usha Martin have been elaborated in this study. Energy optimizing furnace (EOF) has good potential for steelmaking in India and it is technically and commercially viable with indigenously available raw materials. The advantage of EOF in the Indian context especially for mini steel plants not having captive mines is highlighted.