New Delhi: The New Plate Mill of Steel Authority of India Limited’s (SAIL) Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) has taken a significant step toward sustainable steel manufacturing by implementing an advanced emissivity coating in its reheating furnace. The initiative, a first of its kind at RSP, was funded under the KfW Environmental Improvement Programme and executed during a scheduled capital repair.
Boosting Furnace Efficiency and Reducing Emissions
The newly applied emissivity coating is designed to enhance the thermal performance of the furnace by improving heat absorption and re-radiation from refractory surfaces. According to RSP officials, this advanced technology is expected to reduce Specific Heat Consumption (SHC) by approximately 5 percent. The improvement not only translates into significant fuel cost savings but also contributes to a measurable reduction in CO₂ and NOₓ emissions, reinforcing the plant’s commitment to cleaner production.
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Improving Product Quality and Equipment Life
Beyond fuel efficiency, the coating ensures uniform heat distribution inside the reheating furnace. This uniformity improves the quality and consistency of reheated slabs, a critical factor for achieving higher-grade plate production in downstream processes. Additionally, the reduced thermal stress on the furnace refractories extends their operational life, enhancing equipment reliability and lowering maintenance requirements.
Strategic Execution and Oversight
The project, completed at a cost of Rs 23.5 lakh, was carried out under the close monitoring of Nilamani Mohapatra, Head of Section, NPM (Operation), and the guidance of R.K. Muduli, Chief General Manager (NPM, SPP & Digitalisation). Their oversight reflects RSP’s focus on leveraging technological innovation to achieve operational excellence while prioritizing environmental responsibility.
Advancing Sustainability Across the Value Chain
RSP emphasized that this initiative strengthens its ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and adopt cleaner, more sustainable production practices. The long-term benefits are expected to extend across the entire value chain, from enhanced furnace reliability and lower operational costs to improved product quality and stronger sustainability credentials.
About SAIL
Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), a leading public sector undertaking, is one of India’s largest steel-making companies and a key player in the global steel industry. With a focus on technological innovation, sustainability, and high-quality production, SAIL continues to implement initiatives that improve operational efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and strengthen India’s position in the global steel market.
