The chief executive officer of the Ukrainian steel producer Ilyich Iron and Steel Works of Mariupol (Ilyich), Vladimir Boyko, has denied media rumors concerning the possible sale of the mill. "There are many who would like to acquire the mill, but it is impossible. The mill is not for sale," Mr. Boyko declared at a recent press conference.
In addition, Mr. Boyko stated that currently Ilyich is continuing the construction of its pulverized coal injection (PCI) facility for its blast furnaces, is carrying out repair works at its blast furnace No. 5, and is preparing to carry out an overhaul at its lime furnace No. 1.
Currently, Ilyich is operating six of its 12 sinter machines, four blast furnaces, as well as three of its six hearth furnaces, said Mr. Boyko, adding that the plant's flat rolling mill 3000 is operating at 35-40 percent of its capacity, while its flat rolling mill 1700 is utilizing 65-70 percent of its capacity. Ilyich's daily output amounts to 11,000 mt of pig iron and 13,000 mt of crude steel.
"July and August should pass relatively normally," forecasted the Ilyich CEO.