Design features and start-up of the high-productivity 2-strand slab caster at Cosipa

摘要

With a total steel output of 4.5 million t in 2003, Cosipa - a subsidiary of Usiminas-is one of the largest steel producers in Brazil. Their current product mix comprises over 400 steel grades, which range from low-carbon automotive steels to high-carbon steels that are rolled to strips and plates. On 1 December 1999, VAI received a turnkey contract from Cosipa for the expansion of their No. 2 Steelmaking Plant, which included the installation of hot-metal handling stations, a 165 t LD (EOF) converter, an aluminum heating furnace, a 2-strand slab caster, auxiliary systems and facilities in addition to all related environmental and automation systems. In a subsequent project an RH vacuum degassing plant was also supplied, reflecting Cosipa's commitment to continually improving their product quality.