JSW Steel boosts high-grade output with second rh-top unit from SMS Group

JSW Steel has granted Final Acceptance to SMS group for a second 350-ton RH-TOP (Ruhrstahl Heraeus) plant at its Dolvi site in Maharashtra. Following the successful commissioning of the first unit in 2023, the new vacuum degassing facility doubles JSW’s capacity for producing high-purity steel grades used in automotive and construction sectors.

The RH process enables efficient decarburization and degassing of liquid steel in a vacuum vessel. By reducing hydrogen, nitrogen and other impurities, the technology significantly enhances mechanical properties and supports JSW Steel’s strategy to expand its premium product offering and operational efficiency.

The new unit is equipped with a multi-function TOP-Lance system that allows preheating and skull burning directly in the treatment station. According to JSW Steel, this increases flexibility and reduces downtime. A dedicated ferro-silicon (FeSi) bunker at the vacuum lock also enables the production of non-oriented (NO) and grain-oriented (GO) electrical steel grades – a first in India.

Additional design improvements include a revised ladle rocker system capable of handling up to 350 tons of liquid steel. A fail-safe counterweight mechanism ensures safety and reliability even during power outages.

Subrata Dasgupta, Senior Vice President at JSW Steel, said: “The RH technology at Dolvi significantly enhances the steel plant’s capabilities and aligns perfectly with our goals to improve quality, maximize operational efficiency and expand market reach.” He added: “By producing higher quality steel, we can strengthen our competitive position in both domestic and international markets.”

Matthias Oesterwind, Senior Project Manager at SMS group, commented: “This project marks another milestone in the longstanding and successful relationship between JSW Steel and SMS group. We are proud to have completed another secondary metallurgy project that delivers clear benefits to our customer.”

Beyond the RH plants, JSW Steel and SMS group are cooperating on further projects at Dolvi, including a new blast furnace, one of India’s largest BOF converters, a twin ladle furnace, and the third CSP® Nexus casting-rolling plant worldwide – expected to be commissioned in 2026.

Source and Photo: SMS Group