Demonstrating high operational efficiency and reaffirming its critical role in supporting uninterrupted steel production, the Oxygen Plant of SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) registered significant achievements during the Financial Year 2025-26. Through impressive revenue generation, successful execution of key maintenance activities using in-house expertise, crucial facilitation for major commissioning work, and strengthened safety compliance, the department significantly contributed to the overall performance of the Plant.
During the year 2025-26, the Oxygen Plant achieved substantial revenue generation through the sale of liquid gases to outside agencies. A total of 712 tons of Liquid Argon was sold, generating revenue of Rs. 3.62 crore. Additionally, the sale of 419 tons of Liquid Nitrogen earned Rs. 11.75 lakh.
In a significant technical accomplishment, the Wet Air Inlet Valve of Molecular Sieve Bed-A in ASU-III was replaced for the first time using in-house resources ensuring quicker turnaround time for critical maintenance.
The Oxygen Plant played a key role in facilitating the commissioning of Caster-4 at SMS-II, by successfully executing interconnection jobs for supply lines of essential gases and utilities. Interconnections were established for Oxygen, Nitrogen, Argon, Propane and Compressed Air, ensuring seamless integration and readiness of the new caster unit.
Strengthening statutory compliance and safety preparedness, the Oxygen Plant achieved another landmark by obtaining three Fire Safety Certificates from the Odisha Fire Services for the first time. The certifications were secured for Propane Plant-2, Propane Plant-3 and ASU-I, ASU-II & ASU-III, reflecting the department’s proactive approach towards safety systems and regulatory adherence.
Oxygen and other industrial gases form the lifeline of modern steelmaking, playing a crucial role in converters, continuous casting, cutting operations and various utility services. With its impressive performance in revenue generation, technical maintenance excellence, strategic project facilitation and safety certification, the Oxygen Plant of SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant has made a strong contribution towards improved efficiency and sustainable operations during FY 2025-26.
