Nippon Chuzo Increases High Quality Cast Iron for Wind Power Generation

Nippon Chuzo converted a vacuum degassing furnace and improved productivity of high quality products to meet the demand for larger cast iron structural objects related to liquid crystal panels and other applications. The firm expanded the furnace size to 8 tonnes from previous 4 tonnes and doubled the productive yield. The firm can increase order acceptance for special cast iron products such as low-thermal expansion alloy cast iron or oil-drilling cast iron. The firm also aims to increase sales of cast iron for wind power generation in cold area.

Nippon Chuzo introduced a 4-tonne vacuum degassing furnace in 2003 and commercialized the equipment for the first time among Japanese steel makers. The firm converted the furnace size to 8 tonnes in spring 2010. Pig iron is mainly supplied from JFE Steel’s West Japan iron works as raw material.

Wind electric power market is expanding in the world. Nippon Chuzo produces components for wind power generation facilities including rotors and nacelles. The firm tries to increase cast iron supply to Japanese wind power generation facility makers those who are increasing order receipts at overseas.

The firm also expects for order increase of cast iron boxes to contain low radiation contaminated components used in atomic electric power plants. Atomic power plants established 30 years ago or earlier are increasing and the maintenance is needed.