Chhattisgarh: Government-owned NMDC Limited has achieved a major milestone at its 2 MTPA Pellet Plant in Nagarnar, Chhattisgarh, with the successful light-up of the plant’s Straight Grate Indurating Machine.
The light-up was carried out on August 28, 2026, by Vinay Kumar, Director (Technical), NMDC, and Vivek Nishant Nath, Director (Commercial), NMDC.
The development marks an important step towards the commissioning of the pellet plant and strengthens NMDC’s efforts to expand its iron ore value-added product capacity.
Indurating Machine at Nagarnar Pellet Plant Lights Up
The Straight Grate Indurating Machine is a critical component of the pelletization process. The machine is designed to process green iron ore pellets through several controlled stages before producing high-strength iron ore pellets suitable for metallurgical applications.
The pelletization process involves:
- Controlled drying of green iron ore pellets
- Preheating of the pellets
- Induration at controlled temperatures
- Cooling of the processed pellets
- Production of high-strength, metallurgically suitable iron ore pellets
The successful light-up of the machine represents progress in commissioning activities at the Nagarnar Pellet Plant.
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Dry-Out Process Marks Key Commissioning Milestone
Following the successful light-up, the dry-out of the Indurating Machine commenced at the facility.
The dry-out process is an important stage before the machine and associated systems can move towards subsequent commissioning activities.
The achievement demonstrates progress in the development of the 2 MTPA Pellet Plant and reflects NMDC’s focus on timely execution of its value-addition projects.
Metso Outotec–SMS Group Technology Used
The Straight Grate Indurating Machine installed at the Nagarnar Pellet Plant is based on technology provided by Metso Outotec–SMS Group. The project is being executed by Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T).
The combination of specialised pelletization technology and project execution capabilities is expected to support the plant’s commissioning and eventual operations.
Nagarnar Pellet Plant to Strengthen Iron Ore Value Addition
The 2 MTPA pellet plant is an important part of NMDC’s efforts to enhance value addition in the iron ore value chain. The facility will convert iron ore into pellets, which are used as an important raw material in iron and steel production.
The successful commencement of dry-out at the Indurating Machine therefore marks a significant step towards making the facility operational and supporting NMDC’s broader contribution to India’s iron and steel sector.
About NMDC
NMDC Limited is a Navratna public sector mining company under the Ministry of Steel, Government of India. It is one of India’s leading iron ore producers and plays an important role in meeting the country’s mineral requirements. The company is diversifying into steel, coal and strategic minerals, while continuing to expand its mining and processing capacities to support India’s industrial growth and mineral security.
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