Hyundai Steel, a major player in the steel manufacturing landscape, is now embarking on a transformative journey towards “green steel.”
Hyundai Steel, known for producing steel products by melting iron scrap with electricity, faces a dual challenge. While direct carbon emissions from its products remain relatively low, the colossal electricity consumption required for steelmaking has become a persistent issue. The company ranks as the third-largest electricity consumer, trailing only Samsung Electronics and SK Hynix. This puts Hyundai Steel at a crossroads – seeking a power source aligned with carbon-free aspirations becomes a necessity.
Hyundai Steel’s pursuit of green steel hinges on the utilization of carbon-free energy sources, with hydrogen at the forefront. The company’s power generation, primarily driven by by-product gas, presents an opportunity to transition towards hydrogen-powered systems. These systems entail the conversion of the existing heating source to carbon-free fuels like hydrogen or ammonia. This shift represents a significant technological leap that not only reduces carbon emissions but also ushers in the era of “green steel.”
Adopting hydrogen as a power source requires overcoming unique combustion challenges. Hyundai Steel is pioneering the development of combustion technologies and systems that align with hydrogen’s distinct combustion characteristics. A 1 megawatt ladle heating system, fueled by hydrogen, is slated for demonstration by 2025. To facilitate this journey, a cutting-edge combustion performance evaluation laboratory equipped with hydrogen supply facilities is already operational.
Hyundai Steel’s commitment to hydrogen isn’t limited to energy consumption. The company is actively exploring hydrogen’s potential in steel production, envisioning its application as a raw material through hydrogen reduction steel. Collaborative efforts with research institutes like the Korea Institute of Energy Research underscore Hyundai Steel’s dedication to carbon capture, utilization, storage technology, and blue hydrogen production – doubling down on its sustainable mission.
Hyundai Steel’s endeavors hold the potential to revolutionize the steel industry and contribute significantly to global carbon reduction goals. By transforming the core processes of steelmaking, the company could set a precedent for cleaner, more sustainable manufacturing practices. However, challenges loom – from developing and fine-tuning hydrogen combustion technologies to establishing efficient hydrogen production methods, Hyundai Steel’s journey to green steel is multifaceted.
Hyundai Steel’s transition towards green steel is a beacon of hope in a carbon-conscious world. With hydrogen as a key ally, the company’s pursuit of carbon neutrality promises not only a reduction in emissions but also a new dawn for the steel industry. As Hyundai Steel tackles technical intricacies and envisions holistic hydrogen integration, its story underscores the potential for industries to drive transformative change and create a more sustainable future.
