Primetals Technologies set two world records in stainless steelmaking at Çolakoğlu’s upgraded VOD plant in Turkey, achieving the largest-ever heat size of 298.2 tons and record-low carbon levels of 5 ppm. This milestone highlights advanced engineering and innovation in sustainable stainless steel production.
The collaboration between Primetals Technologies and Turkish steel producer Çolakoğlu marked a groundbreaking achievement in the field of stainless steelmaking. At its Dilovası plant, Çolakoğlu’s vacuum oxygen decarburization (VOD) facility set two world records, cementing its place as a global leader in advanced steel production.
Two World Records in Stainless Steel Production
The upgraded VOD plant achieved a heat size of 298.2 tons—the largest ever recorded in stainless steelmaking. Simultaneously, it reached an extraordinary carbon content of just 5 parts per million (ppm) after decarburization, setting a new benchmark for low-carbon stainless steel production. These accomplishments underline the plant’s cutting-edge capabilities and the expertise of Primetals Technologies in engineering solutions for complex manufacturing processes.
Engineering Excellence and Advanced Processes
Achieving these records required precise engineering and innovative process management. The VOD system, which incorporates an oxygen blowing lance, vacuum pump regulation, and additional components like gas cooling and dust filtering systems, was critical to the plant’s success. Advanced process models ensured accurate chemical analysis and optimal steel temperatures, overcoming challenges such as furnace clogging and panel leakage during high-temperature tapping.
Sustainable Stainless Steel Production
The plant’s ability to produce extra-low carbon stainless steel grades through forced decarburization demonstrates its commitment to sustainability. By utilizing robotic systems and efficient material handling, the facility minimized waste and optimized resource use, aligning with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions.
The Role of Çolakoğlu in Turkish Steelmaking
Located in Dilovası, about 60 kilometers southeast of Istanbul, Çolakoğlu’s electric steelmaking plant is one of the largest in the world. Specializing in slabs for hot-rolled products and billets for reinforcing steel bars, the facility has been a cornerstone of Turkish steel production. Its 2020 upgrade to a VOD plant by Primetals Technologies marked a significant step forward in enhancing its capabilities and solidifying its status as an industry pioneer.
About Primetals Technologies
Primetals Technologies, headquartered in London, is a world leader in engineering and lifecycle services for the metals industry. With expertise spanning every step of the iron and steel production chain, the company has consistently driven innovation in sustainable and efficient manufacturing processes.
By setting these records, Primetals Technologies and Çolakoğlu showcased the possibilities of modern engineering, furthering the evolution of stainless steelmaking and reinforcing their leadership in the global steel industry.