Metal Expert: EPM to increase output, improve graphite electrode quality in 2020

Energoprom Group (EPM Group), the key Russian producer of graphite electrodes, is entering the final stage of circular kiln construction at Novocherkassk Electrode Plant (EPM-NEP). Its launch will allow to increase production and improve quality of UHP electrodes next year.

The company completed the construction of circular kiln at the kiln house as a part of a project by Germany’s Riedhammer. The equipment is currently in the process of drying, which will last until early November, followed by the startup and commissioning. The commercial operation launch is planned before the end of this year. “The construction of a modern kiln is the plant’s key investment project aimed at improving the quality and increasing the production of 610 mm graphite electrodes,” the company said in an official statement. The total project cost amounted to RUB 1.5 billion ($23 million, $1 = RUB 64.83).

The EPM development programme will allow to double the output of UHP electrodes. As a result, more than a half of the Russian steelmaking requirement will be served, Metal Expert reported. The company intends to sell about 70% of the output in the domestic market. The total investment in the programme is RUB 2.7 billion ($41.6 million) by the end of 2023. EPM-NEP is now capable of making around 50,000 tpy of graphite electrodes, mostly UHP and HP.
Source: https://metalexpert.com/en/index.html