Bokaro Steel Plant Develops 28MnB5 Manganese-Boron Steel for Farm Equipment

Bokaro Steel Plant (BSL), a unit of the Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL), has unveiled a major metallurgical innovation with the development of 28MnB5 grade manganese-boron steel — the first of its kind within SAIL. The new steel grade is designed specifically for agricultural machinery and wear-resistant applications, marking a step forward in India’s drive toward industrial and agricultural self-reliance.

Breakthrough in Steel for Agricultural Use

The 28MnB5 steel combines medium carbon with manganese, boron, and chromium to achieve superior hardness, strength, and wear resistance. This combination makes it ideal for farm implements such as ploughshares, cultivator blades, disc harrows, shovels, and digger claws — tools that endure high mechanical stress in soil operations. The plant has already supplied over 60,000 tonnes of the new grade since its introduction last year, with production expected to rise to 80,000 tonnes annually.

Strengthening India’s Self-Reliance in Agriculture

According to BSL’s Chief of Communication, Manikant Dhan, the innovation represents a crucial step in bolstering India’s agricultural backbone. “Our new Mn-B steel will make farm implements stronger, more durable, and truly Made in India,” he said. By reducing dependency on imported wear-resistant materials, the development directly supports the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission. It is expected to significantly enhance the durability and efficiency of Indian-made farm machinery.

Widening Applications Beyond Agriculture

Apart from agricultural use, the 28MnB5 steel is also suited for manufacturing components of earth-moving and industrial machinery. Its resistance to abrasion and deformation under high-stress conditions provides manufacturers with a cost-effective domestic alternative to imported materials. Industry analysts note that the steel’s performance parameters meet global standards, opening opportunities for export-oriented equipment manufacturing.

Exam Oriented Facts

• 28MnB5 grade manganese-boron steel is the first of its kind developed by SAIL.
• It is produced by Bokaro Steel Plant for agricultural and wear-resistant applications.
• The steel combines manganese, boron, and chromium for enhanced hardness and durability.
• Annual production is projected to reach 80,000 tonnes, supporting Atmanirbhar Bharat.

Expanding SAIL’s Advanced Steel Portfolio

The innovation strengthens BSL’s diverse product portfolio, which already includes warship-grade steel (DMR-249A), solar application steel, and materials for food grain silos. By extending its expertise into agriculture, Bokaro Steel Plant reinforces its role as a critical contributor to India’s infrastructure and rural economy. The 28MnB5 development not only enhances domestic manufacturing capacity but also underscores the growing synergy between India’s steel sector and its quest for technological self-sufficiency.