THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
ROURKELA,
JANUARY 13, 2026
In a
significant boost to operational excellence and cost efficiency, SAIL-run
Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) has set a new industry benchmark by achieving an
unprecedented steel ladle lining life of 210 heats in its 150-ton steel ladle
at the Steel Melting Shop-II (SMS-II). The feat, accomplished in Steel Ladle
No. 29, surpasses the previous best of 206 heats recorded in September 2020,
underlining RSP’s sustained focus on innovation and process discipline.
The record
performance is a testament to the coordinated efforts and unwavering commitment
of teams from the Refractory Engineering (Services) Department and SMS-II. It
also reflects continuous improvements in refractory performance, operational
practices and maintenance protocols adopted at the plant. The steel ladle
management system for this record-setting run was supplied by RHI Magnesita
India Refractories Ltd. The ladle, lined on October 15, 2025, successfully
completed 210 heats before being withdrawn from service on January 11, 2026.
According to
plant officials, the enhanced ladle life was achieved through a combination of
optimized refractory selection, strict adherence to standard operating
procedures during tapping and teeming, effective slag control, improved
temperature management and timely maintenance interventions. Close coordination
among operations, refractories and maintenance teams played a crucial role in
sustaining performance over an extended campaign.
The
achievement has delivered tangible business benefits, including reduced
refractory consumption, higher ladle availability, lower operational downtime
and improved workplace safety. Together, these gains significantly enhance the
reliability and cost efficiency of steelmaking operations at Rourkela Steel
Plant, reinforcing its position as a leader in operational excellence within
India’s steel sector.
