A batch of HRB500E hot-rolled ribbed steel bars is shipped from Nantong to Xizang. [Photo/WeChat account: haimenfabu] 

A batch of HRB500E hot-rolled ribbed steel bars with a diameter of 50 millimeters, independently developed by Zenith Steel Group Company, was recently shipped from its Nantong base and  successfully arrived at the 5,000-meter-altitude Xizang Julong Copper Mine. 

This milestone represents the first application of such large-diameter, high-strength seismic reinforcement for core mine support in high-altitude, extremely cold regions, marking a significant breakthrough in China's R&D and field application of this grade of structural steel. 

The Xizang Julong Copper Mine faces extreme conditions, with winter temperatures as low as minus 35 Celsius degrees, a daily temperature swing of up to 25 Celsius degrees, ultraviolet radiation three times stronger than in lowland areas, and a seismically active loation. These factors impose stringent requirements on the steel's strength, toughness, corrosion resistance, and stability. 

As a key material for reinforcing the mine's main load-bearing structures, Zenith Steel's HRB500E bars have undergone practical testing on-site, with all performance metrics meeting engineering standards. In addition to its exceptional adaptability to extreme environments, the product also stands out for its green benefits. 

The grade of steel bar has already achieved large-scale production capacity. In addition to high-altitude mining projects, it is also well-suited to critical infrastructure projects such as large bridges, water conservancy hubs, and nuclear power plants.