New Delhi: SAIL’s Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) has set a new benchmark in steelmaking operations by achieving a record ladle lining life of 210 heats in a 150-tonne steel ladle at its Steel Melting Shop-II (SMS-II).
The milestone, achieved in Steel Ladle No. 29, surpasses the previous record of 206 heats set in September 2020. The ladle, lined on October 15, 2025, successfully completed 210 heats before being taken out of operation on January 11.
The achievement reflects sustained teamwork and operational excellence by the Refractory Engineering (Services) Department and SMS-II, supported by improvements in refractory performance, process discipline and maintenance practices. The steel ladle management set was supplied by RHI Magnesita India Refractories Ltd.
RSP attributed the enhanced ladle life to optimized refractory selection, strict adherence to standard operating procedures, effective slag and temperature management, timely maintenance and close coordination among operations, refractory and maintenance teams. The record performance has resulted in reduced refractory consumption, improved ladle availability, lower downtime and enhanced safety, contributing to greater reliability and cost efficiency in steelmaking operations at the plant.
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