Tata Steel has unveiled a major expansion of its Kalinganagar plant in Odisha, increasing its crude steel capacity from 3 MTPA to 8 MTPA with a substantial investment of Rs 27,000 crore. This move marks the company’s largest single investment in India and is set to significantly boost production across a range of industries including automotive, infrastructure, power, shipbuilding, and defense. The investment is poised to enhance Tata Steel’s position as a leader in high-end, value-added steel segments, catering to specific sectors such as oil & gas, lifting and excavation, and construction.
In a ceremony attended by senior leaders, the new facility was inaugurated by Tata Steel CEO and Managing Director, TV Narendran, who hailed the commissioning of India’s largest blast furnace as a milestone for the steel industry. The new furnace, with a massive 5,870 m³ volume, features an innovative design to ensure long campaign life. It is equipped with four top combustion stoves, a first in India, and two preheating stoves that optimize specific fuel consumption during hot metal production, demonstrating Tata Steel’s focus on efficiency and advanced engineering.
The facility is designed with sustainability and eco-friendly technology in mind. For the first time in Tata Steel’s history, a dry gas cleaning plant has been installed to maximize energy recovery from by-product gas. Additionally, the world’s largest Top Gas Recovery Turbine (TRT), with a 35 MW power generation capacity, will recover an additional 10% of energy. The plant also incorporates an evaporative cooling system, which is being used for the first time in an Indian blast furnace, reducing both water and power consumption by 20% compared to conventional designs. Tata Steel has further integrated a zero-process water discharge plan, along with rainwater harvesting, aligning with its commitment to sustainability.
The Phase II expansion at the Kalinganagar plant further solidifies Odisha as a key investment hub for Tata Steel, with the company having invested over Rs 100,000 crore in the state over the last decade. CEO TV Narendran emphasized that this expansion not only boosts Tata Steel’s capabilities but also plays a critical role in the socio-economic development of the region. The expansion aligns with India’s broader vision for self-reliance and sustainable industrial growth, contributing to the nation’s economic landscape.
In addition to the blast furnace, the Phase II expansion includes other key facilities such as a pellet plant, a coke plant, and a cold rolling mill, each incorporating advanced technologies and sustainable practices. These facilities will further enhance the plant’s ability to meet rising industry demands while reducing the environmental impact of the steelmaking process. Tata Steel’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and community development is exemplified in this ambitious expansion, positioning the company at the forefront of India’s steel industry.
