Technology supplier Fives tells Kallanish it has completed the upgrade of the combustion system at Megasa’s SN Maia Siderurgia Nacional Maia plant in Portugal.
The oxygen enrichment project, carried out on an existing billet reheating furnace, included new technology aimed at reducing natural gas consumption. The upgrade also involved the potential for on-site oxygen production, lowering operational costs.
The so-called PREMIX equipment injects additional oxygen into the combustion air duct upstream of the burners. This process increases oxygen levels to 25%, resulting in around 6% fuel savings.
The technology was entrusted to Fives’ Spanish unit, which had previously modified the combustion system of the same furnace.
“By introducing additional oxygen, we are improving combustion, which allows for higher temperatures without increasing fuel usage. This contributes to cost savings and lower CO₂ emissions,” explains Fives Spain’s research & development manager, Oiane Gerrikagoitia.
The technology was designed to be easily integrated and have minimal impact on production.
“We were able to perform the majority of the installation while the furnace was still running, ensuring that production continued smoothly and without significant delays,” adds Koldobika Tafalla González, technical director at Fives.
SN Maia is the largest rebar production plant operated by the Megasa Group.
Todor Kirkov Bulgaria
