Sidenor R&D participates in the project within the framework of the European HORIZON program, which seeks to make the heating process of steel billets before their rolling more efficient and sustainable, thus reducing the use of fossil fuels
Steel production is essential for the steelmaking industry but implies, at the same time, an environmental challenge due to its high CO₂ emissions. For this reason, as part of its commitment to developing a more sustainable industry, Sidenor R&D participates in the ModHeaTech project, an initiative launched within the framework of the European HORIZON program, which seeks to optimise the heating process of steel billets before their rolling, thus reducing fossil fuel consumption.
To achieve this, the project contemplates a hybrid solution that combines traditional heating through natural gas with an electrical induction system fuelled by renewable energy. This approach will allow to reduce emissions without jeopardising steel quality.
In order for this system to work efficiently and adapt to plant conditions, Sidenor R&D is working on the design and optimisation of various settings that combine induction heating before and after the gas furnace process. With the support of RINA-CSM, it has carried out the modelling and calculation of the performance that is necessary to ensure its technical and economic viability.
The contribution of hydrogen
In addition, ModHeaTech includes the participation of the Basque technological center Tekniker, which is in charge of performing a Life Cycle Analysis (LCA) and assessing the Life Cycle Cost (LCC) to ensure the project’s viability. At the same time, the center is studying the possibility to replace natural gas with hydrogen, with a focus on its impact on furnace materials.
This initiative is part of a collaborative effort with other companies in the sector, such as ORI Martin and Feralpi, which also work on heating solutions that are more efficient and environmentally. With ModHeaTech, Sidenor R&D reaffirms its commitment to industrial decarbonisation and the transition towards a more sustainable steel production.