Asonext invests to enhance capacity, quality
Italian stainless steel producer Asonext is investing in its facility in Brescia, aiming for an increase in output and an upgrade in product quality by modernising its 40-tonne argon-oxygen decarburisation (AOD) converter.
Primetals executed the project, overseeing the engineering, mechanical equipment supply, and supervising the construction and implementation phases.
“We are targeting the supply of special stainless steel grades and alloys for highly demanding applications, which requires a specific production process with the AOD converter. Thanks to this converter upgrade, we will be able to meet current and future market demands. Additionally, we are targeting a production increase over the mid- to long-term,” Asonext chief operating officer Federico Curreli says in a note obtained by Kallanish.
Primetals has developed a new, bigger vessel geometry with a 30% increase in inner volume. This enhancement improves vessel lining function and boosts reaction volume. The new strengthened top cone increases equipment life and simplifies maintenance for service technicians.
In the first quarter, Primetals will supply metallurgical consultancy services to improve the newly adopted converter’s production process. As a result of the renovation, Asonext will be able to produce 50,000 tonnes/year of special stainless steel.
Natalia Capra France
