Metalloinvest and Linde Gas Novotroitsk LLC have started the active construction phase of the air separation unit at Ural Steel. Linde’s involvement in the construction, launch and maintenance of the new facility will enable construction cost optimisation and ensure the stable operation of the facility, as well as a high level of maintenance. Metalloinvest's investment in the construction of the related infrastructure for the oxygen block of the new Air Separation Unit 6 will amount to about 800 million roubles. Implementation of the project will meet the plant's demand for high quality air separation and provide a foundation for further production development. The facility will have the capacity to produce 20,000 cubic metres of industrial oxygen per hour and up to 4,000 cubic metres of gaseous nitrogen, dry compressed air and argon. It will be equipped in line with modern standards and all control processes will be carried out using the latest IT solutions.

Works on laying foundations, building of the main infrastructure facilities and installing underground communications have already been completed. Installation of steel structures of pipeline flyovers and the engine room is in progress, with over 95% of works already completed. At the same time, non-essential equipment is being installed and a large-scale pipeline assembly is underway.

All stages of the project are progressing according to schedule. Completion of construction and installation works and launch of the facility are planned for the first quarter of 2021.