In a statement, Primetals Technologies said the machine, part of other the steelmaker’s No. 3 steel shop, was originally designed as a 5-strand caster, but set up and operated as a 3-strand caster. The modifications will add a fourth strand capable of producing 320 x 420 mm blooms.  

The caster runs low- to high-carbon steels and special alloyed steels. As it is configured now, it can produce 600,000 metric tons annually, Primetals Technologies said.  

Work is scheduled to be completed by June.