RHI Magnesita Commissions India’s First Robotics System for Caster Operations at JSW Vijayanagar

RHI Magnesita, a global leader in high-grade refractory products, systems, and solutions, has made history by commissioning India’s first-ever robotics system for caster operations at JSW Vijayanagar Metallics Limited (JVML), a wholly owned subsidiary of JSW Steel Limited, located in Toranagallu, Bellary, Karnataka. This milestone marks a breakthrough in Indian steel manufacturing, introducing advanced automation to one of the most critical stages of steel production.

Part of RHI Magnesita’s 4PRO solution framework, anchored in Performance, Partnership, People, and Planet, the robotic system is the first of its kind in any Indian steel plant. It is designed to handle 350-ton heat-size ladles and perform essential operations such as ladle shroud change, powder feeding in the tundish, temperature measurement, tundish sampling, and probing.

Equipped with cutting-edge technologies like the SX3 slide gate system, EMLI LadleSlag sensors, and robotic cells on the Continuous Casting Machine (CCM), the system automates critical casting processes, enhancing efficiency, safety, and product quality.

By eliminating direct human exposure to molten metal, extreme heat, and hazardous fumes, the technology sets new safety benchmarks in the steel industry. Operating continuously without fatigue, it optimizes cycle times, ensures consistent quality, and minimizes defects and material wastage, reinforcing RHI Magnesita’s leadership in industrial innovation and sustainable manufacturing.

Parmod Sagar, Chairman, MD & CEO of RHI Magnesita India Ltd., said, “This achievement represents a new chapter for the Indian steel industry. By combining our refractory expertise with our 4PRO solutions model, we are setting new benchmarks in innovation, efficiency, safety, and product quality for the industry.”

In addition to safety and productivity gains, the robotics caster delivers substantial cost savings through reduced scrap generation and minimal rework. Its adaptable programming allows it to perform varied casting operations, while integrated sensors and vision systems enable real-time quality monitoring and early defect detection.

Sanjay Sharma, EVP – Steel, LCP, DRI & RED, JSW Steel Limited, Vijayanagar Works added, “The commissioning of India’s first robotic caster at our facility reflects our commitment to technological leadership and operational excellence. Partnering with RHI Magnesita has enabled us to integrate advanced automation into our casting process, significantly improving safety, productivity, and product consistency.”