April 6, 2011, Magnitogorsk, Russia - Magnitogorsk Iron & Steel Works (MMK) reports it has assembled first phase of technological equipment at its mill 2000. Continuous pickling line has been linked to the ‘tandem’ mill. All the necessary gear has been put in place.

The roll test has been accomplished at the input section of the continuous pickling unit (CPU) of the Mill 2000. The low- and high-pressure and the emulsion systems have been tested. Pre-commissioning activities at the CPU’s middle- and tail ends are continuing. The mill’s first stage launch has been scheduled for July 2011. Its capacity will reach 2 mln tons per year. The mill will supply its products to carmakers, home appliance manufacturers and construction sector.