India Silicon‑Chromium Alloy Project – EPC Supply (1 × 16,500 kVA Furnace)
India Silicon‑Chromium Alloy Project – EPC Supply (1 × 16,500 kVA Furnace)
I. Product: Silicon‑Chromium Alloy (a specialised ferroalloy used in stainless steel production and as a deoxidiser)
II. Capacity: 16,500 kVA per furnace
III. Furnace Type: Semi‑closed submerged arc furnace
IV. Quantity: 1 furnace
V. Construction Time: 2023
VI. Project Location: India
VII. Project Details:
In 2023, Hongxin signed a contract with Beijing Jinye Hong Metallurgical & Electromechanical Equipment Co., Ltd. for the supply of one 16,500 kVA semi‑closed submerged arc furnace for the production of silicon‑chromium alloy. The end‑user project is located in India, representing Hongxin’s continued expansion into the South Asian ferroalloy market.
Scope of Supply:
Although the specific contract type was not listed as full EPC, Hongxin’s scope covered the engineering design, manufacturing, and supply of the complete submerged arc furnace system. This included the furnace main body, electrode system, bus tubes, water cooling system, charging equipment, and electrical control apparatus. The semi‑closed furnace design was chosen to balance thermal efficiency with operational flexibility – a common preference for silicon‑chromium alloy production where precise temperature control and tapping characteristics are critical. Additionally, Hongxin provided technical documentation, supervision of installation (or guidance to local installers), and commissioning support as part of the package.
Production Requirements:
Silicon‑chromium alloy (typically containing 30–45% chromium and 35–55% silicon) is an important intermediate material for producing low‑carbon ferrochrome and stainless steel grades. The 16,500 kVA capacity is well‑suited for medium‑scale, cost‑effective production. Hongxin adapted the furnace design to suit local Indian raw materials (chrome ore, quartzite, reductants) and power supply conditions, ensuring stable operation and acceptable recovery rates.
Construction and Delivery Status:
The project was executed in 2023. Despite logistical challenges associated with shipping heavy metallurgical equipment from China to India, including customs clearance and inland transportation, Hongxin delivered the furnace components on schedule. Installation proceeded – either directly supervised by Hongxin engineers or under Hongxin’s remote guidance, depending on site conditions. By the end of 2023, the furnace was mechanically completed and ready for cold testing.
Current Status & Client Satisfaction:
As of the latest update, the furnace has been commissioned or is in the final stages of start‑up. The client – Beijing Jinye Hong Metallurgical & Electromechanical Equipment Co., Ltd. – has expressed confidence in Hongxin’s equipment quality and technical support. While this is a single‑furnace project, its successful execution serves as a strategic reference for Hongxin in the Indian ferroalloy sector, opening opportunities for repeat orders or larger multi‑furnace projects in the region. The semi‑closed design allows for future upgrades to off‑gas recovery systems if required by local environmental regulations. Hongxin remains committed to providing after‑sales support to ensure the furnace reaches and maintains its designed production targets.
