Rio Tinto is stepping into the future of steelmaking, supplying 70% of the iron ore for a groundbreaking hydrogen-based steelmaking plant in Linz, Austria. This plant, a joint venture between Austrian steelmaker voestalpine, steelmaking technology provider Primetals Technologies, and Mitsubishi Corporation, aims to produce hot metal with potential net-zero carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. The facility, with a projected capacity of three tonnes per hour, will utilise Primetals’ hydrogen-based fine-ore reduction (HYFOR) technology and smelter solutions, marking a significant shift in the steelmaking industry.
HYFOR is not just another technology; it’s a game-changer. As the world’s first direct reduction technology for iron ore fines, it bypasses traditional agglomeration steps like pelletising. This innovation could revolutionise the industry, offering a more efficient and potentially less carbon-intensive alternative to conventional methods. Rio Tinto, with its extensive expertise in iron ore quality and preparation, will provide technical input and support Primetals in commercialising this technology. Thomas Apffel, Rio Tinto’s general manager for steel decarbonisation, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating, “We are delighted to join a consortium that encompasses the entire iron and steelmaking value chain.”
The implications of this project are vast. If successful, it could pave the way for widespread adoption of fluidised bed technology, challenging the dominance of shaft furnace technology. This shift could offer substantial benefits to both steelmakers and miners, potentially reducing costs and environmental impact. Apffel welcomed additional participants to the consortium, signalling Rio Tinto’s commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration in the industry.
Primetals, which has been operating a pilot plant on voestalpine’s site in Donawitz since 2021, is confident in the potential of this technology. Alexander Fleischanderl, Primetals’ chief technology officer and head of green steel, described the new plant as “a significant advancement in future-proof ironmaking.” He drew parallels with the impact of the LD converter (BOF) on steel production, suggesting that this technology could similarly transform the industry. With the support of strong partners like voestalpine, Rio Tinto, and Mitsubishi Corporation, Primetals is poised to make a significant impact on net-zero CO2 emissions ironmaking.
The Austrian Government and the European Union have provided funding for the investment and operation of the prototype plant, underscoring the importance of this project in the global push towards sustainable industrial practices. The facility is expected to commence operations in mid-2027, a milestone that the industry will be watching closely. This project is more than just a new plant; it’s a bold step towards a more sustainable future for steelmaking. It challenges the status quo, pushing the industry to reconsider traditional methods and embrace innovation. As the project progresses, it will be crucial to monitor its developments, as it could set a precedent for the future of steelmaking.