SMS Group Commissions Converter Torque Retainer at North American Stainless

Release time：Nov 26, 2019 From：admin

For North American Stainless in Ghent Kentucky, SMS group has successfully commissioned a torque retainer for the 160-ton AOD converter no 1. The customer issued the final acceptance certificate shortly thereafter. The aim of the revamp which was to reduce the torque that had previously been causing uncontrolled vibrations and damage to the bull gear, bearings, and foundations of the converter drive during AOD converter operation – was fully achieved in every respect. As a result, the uncontrolled vibrations in the gear unit and converter vessel were substantially reduced. The target values were achieved under production conditions shortly after commissioning.

SMS group supplied the torque retainer as a compact electrohydraulic unit. The scope of supply also included the engineering, supervision of the erection and installation work, and technical assistance during commissioning. Both the cold and hot commissioning were completed jointly with the customer, and the latter was performed while production was going on.

This is where NAS put SMS group's proven installation concept into action. Thanks to effective joint planning, it was possible to bring forward the plant shutdown date.

NAS is very satisfied with the results. The availability and operational reliability of the AOD converter have been significantly improved. Gear unit maintenance will also be drastically reduced. This revamp means NAS is able to utilize larger tuyeres and thus increase the blowing rate.