Construction and Operation of the Kimitsu Iron Works, Yawata Iron & Steel Co., Ltd.

Abstract

Kimitsu Works is one of the world's most modern steel mills. It is located in Chiba Prefecture near Tokyo, facing the Bay of Tokyo.
Yawata Iron & Steel Co., Ltd. has devoted a great number of personnel and up-to-date techniques to the construction of this new steel mill in order to meet an increasing demand for steel in the Kanto area, one of the biggest steel markets in Japan, as well as to cope with severe competition.
Annual steel ingot production in Kimitsu Works after completion of the 1st phase construction will reach 5 000 000 tons. Ultimately this works will produce 12 000 000 tons of ingots per year after completion of the 2nd phase construction.
This paper summarizes the 1st phase construction and operation.
Kimitsu Works was constructed on reclaimed land like most other Japanese integrated steel works. The first blast furnace was blown-in on November 27, 1968 only one year and nine months after the reclaiming started in March, 1967. The blowing-in of the second blast furnace took place on October 1, 1969. The 1st phase construction was thus completed in a surprisingly short length of time.
The world's largest and most modern equipment is installed at the mill. Ideally planned from its beginnings as an integrated works, the plant features the latest in layout and machinery. The application of a computer system, a modernized transportation system and an efficient control system ensures smooth operation of the mill.
An integrated process from rolling to fabrication is planned for the 2nd phase construction in order to meet diversified steel demand. In addition, the 2nd phase will serve to stengthen and increase equipment capacity. Thus a vast steel complex will be formed at Kimitsu after completion of the 2nd phase construction.