The Instrumentation & Automation (I&A) Department of SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) has made significant strides in the financial year 2024-25, delivering impactful contributions across innovation, safety, and cost optimization.
One of the major initiatives of the department has been the installation and commissioning of a Virtual Reality (VR)-based digital walkthrough of the RSP plant at the L&D Department. This state-of-the-art initiative offers an immersive experience for employees and visitors, enabling better understanding and orientation of plant operations through interactive visual simulation.
In another pioneering step, the department undertook an underwater inspection of the upstream side of the spillway and sluice gates at Mandira Dam using advanced drone technology. This innovative approach led to the development and submission of a predictive study report based on mathematical modeling, aimed at enhancing preventive maintenance and infrastructure safety.
Enhancing process control and emissions monitoring, the department commissioned dry gas analysers for online analysis of different gases in Converters P and Q of Steel Melting Shop-I (SMS-I). Besides, H₂ analysers were successfully installed in Converter 1 and 2 at SMS-I, ensuring more accurate monitoring of hydrogen levels and contributing to improved steelmaking efficiency.
Focusing on operational safety, the department implemented a critical safety measure for the early detection of hood water leakage in converters at SMS-I. This initiative significantly strengthens workplace safety by reducing the risk of unforeseen incidents related to water ingress during high-temperature operations.
In a remarkable display of in-house technical expertise, the department repaired 669 cards, electronic modules, and drives during the current financial year. This effort has resulted in estimated cost savings of Rs 2.5 crores, reflecting the team’s dedication to resource optimization and self-reliance.
These achievements show the Instrumentation & Automation Department’s strong focus on new technology, safety, and better performance. The team is helping RSP move forward with smart ideas and steady progress.
