VÍTKOVICE STEEL has launched one of the largest cutting machines in the Czech Republic. This will increase the production capacity of various cut shapes, which complement the existing production of thick plates, by one-third. The company will also expand its product offerings for the construction and engineering industries. This marks the company’s largest investment in technology modernization this year.

“The new cutting machine is the largest we have ever had in our facility. Thanks to its size and modern technology, it will significantly enhance our cut shape production capabilities. The track width is 8 meters and the length is 40 meters. This allows us to produce pieces up to 20 meters long in various shapes, with different types of bevel edges, and it can handle up to 7 strips of plates at once,” said Radim Pachlopník, Chief Operating Officer of VÍTKOVICE STEEL. The new cutting machine can produce 12,000 tons of cut shapes per year, helping to increase the existing cut shape production capacity by approximately one-third.

The new cutting facility includes two Omnicut 8000 cutting machines, each operated by one worker. One portal is equipped with eight vertical stations and an automatic three-torch oxy-fuel head with oxygen and natural gas torches. The other portal is equipped with a 3D tilting plasma torch and a CNC drilling unit, which allows drilling of holes and threading. The entire process of cutting shaped cut shapes, including complex shapes, is computer-controlled. The main supplier of the equipment was the Czech company MGM, specializing in cutting machines.

“This extensive investment project, with a total value of 30 million CZK, included not only the project preparation but also the construction of foundations, installation of natural gas and electricity supplies. Roof and floor repairs in the hall were also carried out, a compressor room for new compressors was built, and a new crane crossbeam with higher load capacity was manufactured, enabling the transport of heavier and longer plates,” added Jakub Till, Investment Manager at VÍTKOVICE STEEL.

The installation of the cutting machine took place from November to April, followed by a trial operation, and the equipment is now being tested, with additional workers being trained on it. When fully operational, the machine will be operated by two cutters per shift, supplemented by a worker for cleaning the cut shapes and a crane operator. In total, 16 people will be needed for a four-shift operation.

Cut shapes are one of the three main products of VÍTKOVICE STEEL. They are used for various engineering constructions, wind turbines, bridge structures, and other purposes in engineering and construction.

VÍTKOVICE STEEL a.s. is a traditional European manufacturer of rolled steel products, the largest producer of steel plates in the Czech Republic, and the only producer of so-called sheet piles in the Czech Republic. The company employs over 800 people. The majority of the products from the Ostrava plant are used in construction and engineering, with 70% of sold products being exported.