Jindal Steel has appointed industrial engineering specialist Fives to modernise the Level-1 control systems of two reheating furnaces at its Patratu plant in India.The upgrade will cover two Stein Digital furnaces with capacities of 160 tonnes and 200 tonnes. The project includes modern programmable logic controller hardware, upgraded operating platforms, a high-speed optical communication network, and new engineering and operator stations.

These improvements are expected to strengthen process reliability, accelerate system response times and reduce maintenance requirements. The upgraded technology will also provide greater fuel flexibility, helping Jindal Steel operate its production lines at optimal speeds.

Fives plans to complete the work within a short implementation schedule and limited shutdown period. This approach will help minimise production downtime while allowing Jindal Steel to achieve operational improvements quickly.The furnace automation project supports the steelmaker’s efforts to enhance plant efficiency and meet growing demand from India’s construction and infrastructure sectors. It also highlights the steel industry’s increasing focus on digitalisation, reliable process control and modern manufacturing technology.