Synopsis
Hyundai Steel is making significant strides in eco-friendly steel production. With innovations like quake-resistant H CORE steel and an electric furnace that cuts carbon emissions by 30%, the company is committed to achieving carbon neutrality. It also aims to expand hydrogen production for fuel cell electric vehicles.
Article
Hyundai Steel, a unit of the Hyundai Motor Group, is embracing a future defined by sustainability. The company recently outlined its commitment to carbon-neutral steel production, presenting its plans at the Steel & Metal Korea 2023 exhibition.
One of the company's notable products is H CORE steel, a quake- and fire-resistant material introduced in 2017. According to a company official, this innovation can be employed in various construction fields, ranging from civil engineering to plant construction. Hyundai Steel also plans to offer a customized service for this product, called the H CORE Solution, to meet specific construction needs while maintaining low carbon emissions.
Last year, Hyundai Steel introduced a revolutionary electric furnace that reduces carbon emissions by 30% compared to traditional blast furnaces. This technology has enabled the production of 1.0 GPa steel plates, a world-first accomplishment. The electric furnace is also used in making ultra-high-strength rolling steel plates for automobiles.
Hyundai Steel is investing in its metal separator business, which employs a strong magnetic field to separate non-ferrous metals from waste streams. This technology is essential for the production of fuel cell electric vehicles, a sector the company views as a future growth engine.
In addition to its innovations in steel production, the company produces hydrogen as a byproduct of steel manufacturing. This hydrogen is used as fuel for fuel cell electric vehicles. Currently, Hyundai Steel supplies 3,000 metric tons of hydrogen annually, with plans to increase this to 20,000 metric tons next year and 100,000 metric tons by 2030.
Hyundai Steel is on track to achieve its sustainability objectives. The company has invested heavily in technologies that reduce carbon emissions and is actively engaged in the hydrogen economy. It also aims to continue the expansion of its eco-friendly steel lineup.
Conclusion
Hyundai Steel's commitment to eco-friendly steel production and carbon neutrality is not just ambitious but also practical. With a blend of innovative technologies and a focus on future growth sectors, the company is well-placed to make a meaningful impact in the fight against climate change.