HELSINKI, Finland, Jan. 9, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- Metso Minerals will supply a Grate Kiln system for iron ore pelletizing to LKAB in Kiruna, Sweden. The value of the order is EUR 65 million. The estimated start-up of the operation is the first quarter of 2008.
The new system called KK4 will produce 6 million tons of iron ore pellets for steel making per year. The Metso Minerals delivery comprises a grate preheater, rotary kiln, annular cooler and auxiliary equipment. The system will be used to indurate pellets for use in blast furnaces for the production of steel. When completed, the system will upgrade the pelletizing capacity for LKAB at Kiruna by over 50%.
KK4 is part of LKAB's overall expansion of the mine and production facility in Kiruna. LKAB is the leading European producer of upgraded iron ore products for steelmaking. Headquartered in Lulea, Sweden, it had a net sales of EUR 975 million in 2004, and it employs approximately 3,500 employees.
Metso is a global engineering and technology corporation with 2004 net sales of approximately EUR 4 billion. Its 22,000 employees in more than 50 countries serve customers in the pulp and paper industry, rock and minerals processing, the energy industry and selected other industries.