From Natural Gas to Alternative Energy Sources: Decarbonization of Burner Technology

The decarbonization of the steel industry is a central challenge of the energy transition. A key component on this path is the evolution of burner technology, which plays a crucial role in many process steps of stainless steel production. At its Krefeld site, the Finnish stainless steel group Outokumpu demonstrates how this transition can be shaped in practice. This article highlights the various approaches the company is pursuing to make burner technology more energy-efficient and sustainable. From optimizing existing plants and testing alternative fluids like hydrogen to utilizing waste heat and employing digital technologies. The article addresses the challenges and opportunities of this transformation and shows the role burner technology can play in a future-proof stainless steel production.