John Cockerill India Limited (JCIL) has clinched a significant contract from Tata Steel Limited, marking a substantial advancement in sustainable steel production technology. The deal involves the engineering, design, manufacture, and supply of a state-of-the-art Push-Pull Pickling Line and Acid Regeneration Plant for Tata Steel's Jamshedpur facility.

Project Specifications

The contract encompasses the following key components:

1. Push-Pull Pickling Line (PPPL):

   • Annual capacity: 350,000 TPA
   • Strip width processing: Up to 1350 mm
   • Thickness range: Up to 3.8 mm
   • Maximum speed: 120 mpm

2. Spray Roaster Acid Regeneration Plant (ARP):

   • Capacity: 2700 LPH
   • Acid regeneration efficiency: Over 99.5%

Technological Advancements

The PPPL will feature several cutting-edge elements:

• V-shaped granite blocks for simplified strip uncoiling
• Efficient rinsing systems
• Two-step acid scrubbing process for minimized acid fumes
• Double uncoiler and stitcher
• Three Cockerill-designed pickling tanks
• In-line side trimmer

Environmental and Operational Benefits

Frédéric Martin, Managing Director of John Cockerill India Limited, emphasized the project's dual focus on efficiency and sustainability: "Our solutions will not only enhance production efficiency but also contribute to Tata Steel's sustainability goals by reducing waste and environmental impact."

The closed-loop system of the Spray Roaster ARP offers significant environmental and operational advantages:

• Substantial reduction in fresh acid demand, lowering operational expenses
• Production of high-purity iron oxide by-product, creating additional revenue streams
• Future-ready emission control system, designed to meet stringent environmental norms up to 15 mg/Nm³

Strategic Importance

This contract reinforces John Cockerill India's position as a leading technology partner in the steel industry. The company will leverage its extensive experience, including over 150 reference pickling lines worldwide and more than 100 successful ARP installations globally.

Kishore Tar, Chief Projects & Construction (Engineering & projects) at Tata Steel Limited, commented on the strategic importance of the project: "This project will help us strengthen operational reliability, reduce environmental impact, and reinforce our leadership in responsible steel production."

Project Execution

John Cockerill India will utilize its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Taloja near Mumbai to support the project. The company will provide automation systems through its expert team, complemented by outsourced components from reputed market suppliers.

This collaboration between John Cockerill India and Tata Steel represents a significant step forward in advancing sustainable steelmaking practices in India, combining cutting-edge technology with environmental responsibility.

John Cockerill India Limited (JCIL) has announced a significant new contract worth approximately INR 80.00 crores from Tata Steel Limited, marking a notable development in the industrial equipment sector. The contract, disclosed in a recent filing with the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), involves the engineering, design, manufacture, and supply of Pickling and Acid Regeneration Plant (ARP) equipment for Tata Steel's Jamshedpur Tinplate Division in Jharkhand.

Contract Details

The scope of the contract includes:

• Engineering, design, manufacture, and supply of Pickling and ARP equipment
• Supervision of erection and commissioning of the plants
• Delivery of all critical components for the push-pull pickling line and acid regeneration plants
• Ensuring contractual performance guarantees are met

Project Timeline and Execution

JCIL is set to complete the contract by mid-2027, as stated in the company's BSE filing. This timeline suggests a comprehensive project that will span several years, highlighting the complexity and scale of the undertaking.

Strategic Importance

This contract is significant for John Cockerill India Limited for several reasons:

1. Domestic Growth: The contract strengthens JCIL's position in the Indian market, particularly in the steel industry sector.
2. Technical Expertise: It showcases the company's capabilities in providing advanced industrial solutions, specifically in pickling and acid regeneration technologies.
3. Long-term Engagement: The multi-year project duration indicates a sustained business relationship with Tata Steel, one of India's leading steel producers.

Corporate Governance and Transparency

In its filing, JCIL clarified that the contract does not involve any related party transactions or interests from the promoter group. This transparency aligns with good corporate governance practices and regulatory requirements.

Company Leadership Update

In a separate but noteworthy development, JCIL also announced the appointment of Mr. Ujwal Kawale as the new Chief Operating Officer, effective September 15, 2025. Mr. Kawale brings over 18 years of experience in industrial project management and engineering strategy, with a strong background in the steel industry. His appointment could potentially contribute to the efficient execution of projects like the Tata Steel contract.

The contract with Tata Steel and the new leadership appointment position John Cockerill India Limited for potential growth and enhanced operational capabilities in the coming years.