Tata Steel has appointed engineering firm Asea Brown Boveri (ABB) to deliver electrification and advanced process technologies for their Port Talbot steelmaking project.
ABB will supply high- and low- voltage switchgear, power and distribution transformers, plus digital control systems, which aims to make the plant safer, more energy-efficient and digitally advanced.
The project, situated in Wales, intends to transform Port Talbot into a low CO₂ steelmaker, with a 320t Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) to be commissioned in 2027/28.
Rajesh Nair, CEO of Tata Steel, said: “We’re looking forward to ABB helping us to positively impact the transformation at Port Talbot Steelworks, a site undergoing critical change for the future of UK steelmaking.
"Their proven technologies and expertise will support our evolving production processes on site, enabling resource and cost efficiencies for the long-term.”
As part of the partnership, ABB will also supply its ArcSave stirring system, which the company claims can boost EAF productivity and efficiency while reducing energy use.
The contract builds on the relationship between the two, with ABB also set to deliver automation and electrification for the site’s new pickling line.
Frederik Esterhuizen, global business line manager for metals at ABB, added: “Our aim is to work with our customers and the various suppliers involved in the project to ensure the timelines for commissioning are met and that the region can continue its rich heritage in steelmaking into the future.”
The Port Talbot project is part of Tata’s $1.25b investment in sustainable steelmaking as the company hopes it can cut CO₂ emissions at the site by 90%. The project is also backed by £500m in UK government support.
ABB’s technologies are set to be commissioned for 2027, with full operation startup of the EAF set for 2028.
