The New Plate Mill of SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) has set a new benchmark in sustainable steel manufacturing with the successful implementation of an innovative emissivity coating in its reheating furnace. This pioneering and first-of-its-kind initiative at RSP, funded under the KFW Environmental Improvement Programme, was seamlessly executed during a scheduled capital repair. It showcased exemplary planning and commitment by the unit to integrate technological advancement with operational efficiency.
The advanced emissivity coating enhances the thermal performance of the furnace by improving heat absorption and re-radiation from refractory surfaces. The initiative is expected to bring about a 5% reduction in Specific Heat Consumption, which translates into both significant cost savings and a meaningful reduction in greenhouse gas emissions such as CO₂ and NOₓ. The project, implemented at a cost of Rs 23.50 lakh, reinforces RSP’s ongoing efforts to minimise its carbon footprint and adopt cleaner production practices.
In addition to fuel efficiency, the coating ensures more uniform heat distribution within the furnace, which directly translates to improved quality and consistency of reheated slabs, an essential prerequisite for achieving superior downstream plate production. Another major benefit is the extended life of furnace refractories, owing to reduced thermal stress, which in turn enhances overall equipment availability and lowers maintenance requirements.
This initiative highlights the New Plate Mill’s leadership in driving innovation aligned with environmental responsibility. It brings long-term advantages across the value chain, from strengthened furnace reliability for operators and measurable cost efficiencies for the organisation, to enhanced sustainability credentials and improved product quality for customers.
The successful execution of this pioneering project was made possible through constant monitoring by Mr. Nilamani Mohapatra, HoS, NPM (Operation), under the active guidance of Mr. R.K. Muduli, CGM (NPM, SPP & Digitalisation).
