Hyundai Steel orders blast furnace gas injection study

South Korean steelmaker Hyundai Steel has awarded Primetals a contract for a study on blast furnace gas injection. The aim of the study is to reduce carbon emissions and determine the most ecologically efficient operation of the three blast furnaces at the Dangjin plant. Hyundai Steel aims to achieve CO2 neutrality by 2050.

The blast furnace gas injection study at the Dangjin plant will be executed in two phases.
Phase 1 will focus on a process performance study which will evaluate the impact that injecting hydrogen bearing gases into the furnace via the tuyeres will have on production stability, yield, and emission reduction. This phase will also investigate the impact of operating Sequence Impulse Process (SIP) technology on the furnace. SIP technology pulses high-pressure oxygen in a pre-determined sequence to each tuyere; shock waves penetrate deep into the raceway of the blast furnace, combusting the fine char build-up and improving coke permeability. This process enhances gas utilization and improves furnace drainage.
Phase 2 will explore the physical layout options at the plant for each technology, including necessary pipework and associated capital costs.
According to Primetals, the completed report will enable Hyundai Steel to determine the most environmentally efficient operation of the three blast furnaces at its Dangjin plant. This study is part of Hyundai’s detailed action plan, aiding the development of a long-term technology roadmap that aligns with its goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. By replacing part of the traditional carbonaceous fuels with alternative gas injection, Hyundai Steel aims to reduce the CO2 emissions from the blast furnace. This not only improves the plant’s environmental credentials but is also expected to lower operating costs, reducing the cost per ton of hot metal while maximizing furnace production.
Source: Primetals Technologies