Iromaking

Ironmaking is the first step in the steel production process, converting iron ore into molten iron. This upstream phase is pivotal when it comes to shaping a sustainable metals industry, since it accounts for approximately 70% of the industry's carbon emissions. With each ton of crude steel, the reduction of iron ore to iron causes 1.85 tons of CO₂. Our cutting-edge solutions aim to revolutionize ironmaking, significantly reducing environmental impact while enhancing efficiency and sustainability.

To combat climate change, steel must become “green”. As a technology supplier, we have turned this challenge into our mission. However, the pathway towards green steel depends on many variables from steel demand to energy supply and raw material availability. We take a look into the future and different scenarios.

Gradual retrofitting of existing blast furnaces

Radical switch to hydrogen-based direct reduction

Maximizing the use of recycled materials

Expanding renewable energy sources for plant operations

Metallurgy / Ironmaking

EASyMelt

The Paul Wurth EASyMelt is a resource-flexible, crisis-resiliant and cost-efficient alternative to direct reduction shaft furnaces. It can be integrated into existing integrated steel plants, demonstrating a significant pathway for the decarbonization of existing blast furnaces worldwide.

Metallurgy / Ironmaking

Blast furnace

Paul Wurth history is marked by more than 100 years of expertise in the design and manufacture of ironmaking equipment. We have been integrated blast furnace plant builders for almost 70 years.

Metallurgy / Ironmaking

Cokemaking technology

In coke making, Paul Wurth offers tailor-made and state-of-the-art solutions for your turnkey construction projects, modernizations as well as hot and cold repairs.

Metallurgy / Ironmaking

Midrex Direct reduction plants

Paul Wurth offers Midrex® gas-based direct reduction iron-making plants as part of primary production. DRI and hot briquetted iron are used in steelmaking.

Top charging

Top charging in ironmaking is revolutionized by our Paul Wurth Bell Less Top (BLT) technology, which enhances the efficiency and environmental performance of blast furnaces. The Paul Wurth BLT system precisely controls the distribution of raw materials like coke and sinter, ensuring optimal burden distribution and reducing fuel consumption. This innovative technology leads to significant CO₂ emission reductions, improved productivity, and lower operating costs by supporting higher Pulverized Coal Injection (PCI) rates and minimizing coke usage. By integrating advanced process know-how and mathematical modeling, the Paul Wurth BLT system sets new standards in sustainable ironmaking, making it a game-changer in the industry.
Slag granulation
Value-added products from blast furnace slag

The Paul Wurth INBA slag granulation system is an advanced technology designed to transform slag into a valuable product for the cement industry. This process involves granulating the slag using water, followed by dewatering with the dynamic INBA dewatering drum. The system is highly flexible and compact, allowing it to be integrated seamlessly into various plant configurations.

Key benefits of the INBA system include reduced emissions and improved environmental control. Additionally, the system is recognized as a Best Available Technology due to its efficiency in processing slag and producing high-quality granulated blast furnace slag, which serves as a CO2-friendly substitute for clinker in cement production
Injection technologies

Pulverized Coal Injection (PCI) and Coke Oven Gas (COG) Injection are cutting-edge technologies that significantly enhance the efficiency and sustainability of blast furnace operations in ironmaking.

Pulverized Coal Injection (PCI) involves injecting finely ground coal directly into the blast furnace, reducing the need for coke and thereby lowering production costs and CO2 emissions. This technology allows for high injection levels, improving the combustion process within the furnace and enhancing overall productivity and fuel efficiency. Paul Wurth advanced PCI systems, operational in over 80 blast furnaces globally, exemplify the effectiveness of this approach, offering reliable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly solutions.

Coke Oven Gas (COG) Injection utilizes by-product gases from coke production as a supplementary fuel in blast furnaces. By injecting COG, the reliance on conventional fuels like coke and coal is reduced, further cutting carbon emissions. This method not only recycles waste gases but also integrates seamlessly into existing furnace operations, offering a quick and efficient route to lower CO2 footprints in ironmaking.