Blast furnace back online in Whyalla

Hundreds of GFG Alliance workers will be able to return to their regular shift rosters following the resumption of steelmaking in Whyalla on Friday, July 5.

The blast furnace restart operation, which began after an unexpected delay following routine maintenance in mid-March, is nearing completion following a series of breakthroughs which have seen the hot metal temperature and chemistry move to optimal levels.

Workers in power and services, maintenance and steelmaking divisions who were on a temporary day work roster will progressively transition to their regular shift rosters from today as preparations begin for a return of steelmaking.

“I look forward to welcoming workers back to their regular shift rosters and want to thank them for their patience and commitment during this time” 

– Liberty Primary Steel Managing Director Tony Swiericzuk

LIBERTY Primary Steel Managing Director Tony Swiericzuk said there is still work to be done, and this is a positive step forward.  

 “We are now at the pointy end of the recovery operation which means we can start preparing the steelworks to do what we do best – making high quality steel,” Tony said.  

 “I look forward to welcoming workers back to their regular shift rosters and want to thank them for their patience and commitment during this time.” 

Rolling Mill workers are also expected to return to their regular shift rosters shortly.  

“We are continuing to work with our customers to ensure their needs are met and we will continue to do so as production begins,’’ Tony said.

Ageing assets like the Blast Furnace will eventually be retired, until then GFG Alliance will continue to take careful and considered measures to safely operate and maintain the condition of the Blast Furnace and more broadly the Whyalla Steelworks. 

Watch the video as the blast furnace goes back online