Baosteel Desheng grants FAC to SMS group for Vacuum Oxygen Decarburization (VOD) plant to produce high-grade stainless steel

• Increased production capacity of vacuum-treated steels to 417.000 tons annually
• New VOD system enables the production of steel with lower impurity levels to meet the high demands of the automotive, aerospace and construction industries
• Seamless integration of the VOD system into the existing steel mill
• Close partnership with Baosteel Engineering in a turnkey project

Baosteel Desheng Stainless Steel Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of China Baowu Steel Group, located in Fuzhou, issues the Final Acceptance Certificate (FAC) for the successful completion of the Vacuum Oxygen Decarburization (VOD) plant to SMS group. The VOD system represents a crucial component of Baosteel Desheng's strategic expansion in stainless steel production. It is designed to enhance the facility's capacity for producing specialty steels by employing secondary metallurgical processes that ensure superior quality and efficiency. The total capacity is 417.000 tons per year.

The VOD system supplied by SMS is engineered to meet the demanding specifications required for high-purity steel production. With a capacity of 120 tons per heat, the VOD unit effectively removes carbon and other impurities, thus enhancing the quality of the steel produced. The new VOD system will allow Baosteel Desheng to produce steel with lower impurity levels, catering to the growing demand for high-quality materials in various industries, including automotive, aerospace, and construction.

The handover of the VOD plant marks a significant achievement in SMS group’s cooperation with Baosteel Engineering and Technology Group Co., Ltd. Both teams collaborated extensively to ensure seamless integration of the VOD system into the existing infrastructure at Baosteel Desheng as well as to optimize the system's performance. This collaboration was instrumental in achieving the project goals within the stipulated timeline and budget. The execution of this EPC-project, initiated under the contract signed in June 2020, involved several crucial phases, including design, manufacturing, installation, and commissioning. Each phase was meticulously planned and executed to meet the highest standards of quality and safety.

“SMS group's commitment to excellence was evident in the ability to deliver on all project milestones, culminating in the successful completion and handover of the VOD system. The VOD system meets all contractual obligations and performance criteria, as verified by rigorous testing and evaluation processes. The successful commissioning of the system has already started to contribute to Baosteel Desheng's production capabilities, offering enhanced efficiency and product quality.”, says Li Jiancheng, Project Manager of Baosteel Engineering and Technology Group Co., Ltd.

Matthias Oesterwind, Senior Project Manager Metallurgy from SMS group, points out: “This project underscores our ability to deliver innovative metallurgical solutions that meet the evolving needs of the global steel industry. It reinforces our reputation as a trusted partner in the development and implementation of state-of-the-art steelmaking technologies. SMS group remains committed to supporting Baosteel Desheng and Baosteel Engineering in future endeavors. The successful completion of the VOD project sets a benchmark for future projects and we look forward to continuing this successful partnership in the years to come.”