According to a statement from the equipment supplier, SMS group, the upgrade is meant to reduce the torque that had been causing uncontrolled vibrations and damage to the bull gear, bearings and foundations of the converter drive during converter operation. 

The torque retainer was supplied as a compact electrohydraulic unit. The scope of supply also included the engineering, supervision of the erection and installation work, and technical assistance during commissioning. 

SMS group said installation of the retainer has improved the converter’s availability and reliability. 

"What impresses us is just how quiet the AOD converter and its entire surroundings are,” said Duncan Bassett, head of mechanical maintenance at North American Stainless. “The integration of the torque retainer in the existing converter went without a hitch, and the electrical and automation systems were adapted especially for us."