Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP), a unit of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), marked a significant operational milestone on 23rd July 2026 with the blowing-in of Blast Furnace–4 (BF–4). The operation was carried out in the presence of Mr. Alok Verma, Director In-Charge, RSP. Also preset on the occasion were Mr. BK Giri, ED (Mines Development), Mr. BR Palai, ED (Works), Mr. Anil Kumar, ED (MM), Mr. MP Singh, ED (Mines), Mr. S Pal Chowdhury, ED (Projects), Mr. Rajesh Dasgupta, CGM Incharge(F &A), many Chief General Managers, senior officials of RSP, and employees of the Blast Furnace Department and associated agencies.
Notably, Blast Furnace – 4 had commenced its sixth campaign after relining on 8 September 2020 and was subsequently blown down on 5th July 2024. Following an extended shutdown, the furnace underwent shotcreting and associated repair activities, and was readied for restart in July 2026. The successful blowing-in marks the culmination of meticulous planning, coordinated execution, and dedicated efforts by the Blast Furnace collective, with valuable support from various associated departments.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Alok Verma, conveyed his best wishes to the Blast Furnace team for the safe, stable, and successful commencement of operation of BF–4. He emphasised the need to reduce the cost of hot metal by improving operational efficiency and optimising key techno-economic parameters, specifically highlighting the importance of lowering the coke rate, increasing the pulverised coal injection (PCI) rate, and achieving higher hot-blast temperatures to enhance the overall performance and competitiveness of the furnace.
Mr. Palai, congratulated the Blast Furnace team and all supporting departments on the timely completion of the repair and restart activities. He appreciated the collective commitment demonstrated by the teams and stressed the need for sustained efforts to improve the techno-economic performance of BF–4.
Mr. Sumeet Kumar, Chief General Manager, Blast Furnaces, expressed gratitude to the DIC, EDs and other senior officers for their guidance, encouragement, and good wishes. He congratulated the entire Blast Furnace collective and acknowledged the invaluable contribution of all associated departments in achieving this important milestone.
