Fossil-free steel transformation – SSAB in Sweden

AFRY supports SSAB in their journey to fossil-free steel in their plant in Luleå, Sweden.

SSAB is undertaking a major project to transform to fossil-free steel production. SSAB is planning to replace the current blast furnace production route with a new, state-of-the-art mini-mill concept that utilises electric arc furnaces (EAFs).

SSAB's mini-mill will produce 2.5 million tonnes of fossil-free steel per year. Once completed, SSAB will decommission the existing blast furnace-based production facility in Luleå, reducing Sweden’s annual CO2 emissions by 7% in addition to the 3% reduction from the Oxelösund mill conversion.

We are proud to continue our strong partnership with SSAB on this important green transformation project aimed at decarbonising steel production. The unique combination of AFRY’s local and global expertise as well as our deep knowledge of SSAB’s projects will ensure a high-quality and efficient project delivery from AFRY.

Nicholas Oksanen, EVP and Head of Process Industries at AFRY

The startup of the new production line is planned for the end of 2028.

Image source: SSAB

Project: Fossil-free steel plant

Client name: SSAB

Project location: Luleå, Sweden

Project duration: 2024-2028

AFRY Scope of Services delivered: Multi-disciplinary basic and detail engineering services

AFRY’s assignment is linked to the melting and hot rolling complex, and it includes multi-disciplinary basic and detail engineering. The melting and hot rolling complex includes electric arc furnaces, secondary metallurgy, thin slab casting and hot rolling as well as the necessary infrastructure and auxiliary services. In addition to Engineering Management, HSE and Quality, AFRY’s engineering disciplines covers process, layout, mechanical, equipment, and piping engineering, civil engineering, electrical, instrumentation and automation engineering as well as infrastructure and architectural design.

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Steel is the world’s most important material for engineering and construction, playing a crucial role in many aspects of our lives - ranging from cars and buildings to refrigerators, washing machines, industrial equipment, and medical devices. Currently, steel production accounts for more than 7% of global carbon dioxide emissions, making decarbonisation a global priority for the steel industry. With over 60 years of experience, AFRY has extensive knowledge in large industrial investment projects and strong know-how in metallurgical processes. AFRY is ranked among the top five international engineering companies within the global process and steel industry (Engineering News Record, ENR).