Today, the students from Ilek High School visited Aktobe Rail and Section Works, where they learned about the production processes and discovered how the most important elements of railway infrastructure are created.

The excursion began with a safety briefing in the conference hall of the plant. A plant employee introduced the students to the history of the plant, its role in the national economy, and modern technologies used in the production of rails and steel sections. The students learned that the plant’s products are not only supplied within Kazakhstan but also exported to other countries.

Wearing helmets and special safety vests, the students then proceeded to the production shop. The first stop was the Re-Heating Furnace area, where the guide explained how rail production begins with continuous-cast steel being heated in the furnace. The students observed the initial stages of rail production with great interest.

The next stop was the Rolling Shop, where the steel bars are transformed into rails. Here, the employees operate massive machines to shape the red-hot steel into the required dimensions. The students were amazed by the scale of production and how high temperatures are required for the metal to be malleable.

Special attention was given to thermal treatment area, where the students were demonstrated the rail quenching process. This process enables the rails to withstand heavy loads during operation. Plant specialists explained how such treatment enhances the strength and extends the service life of the rails.

At the end of excursion, the students went to quality control laboratory. Here they were shown the process of testing finished products for strength, wear resistance and compliance with international standards. Engineers told them about modern diagnostic methods and the importance of quality control for railway safety.

At the end of the event, the students asked many questions about the work of the plant, necessary specialists and career opportunities in the metallurgical industry. The excursion was not only informative, but also inspiring, as many of the children began to think about their future profession in the field of industry and technology.