"In the next two years, the metallurgical industry will have to make huge financial efforts to start major projects to change technologies, despite all the challenges it faces. The European institutions are calling for a shift to zero-emission green steel, replacing coal with natural gas and methane gas with hydrogen from green technologies, as well as the re-engineering of steel flows from iron ore and coal. The European Union has allowed member countries to grant state aid for the modernization of their companies, but in the absence of this, we have resorted to financial efforts to ensure the acceleration of the decarbonization processes of our plants," said Adrian Popescu, chairman of the board of Artrom Steel Tubes.

The company has started the process of upgrading the block heating furnace for forming pipes for rolling with the support of the Italian company SMS Spa, part of the SMS Group and Vesuvius Europe GmbH, both with significant experience in the industrial field. 

The process involves complete rebuilding of the masonry, using state-of-the-art refractory materials, as well as the installation of a new set of SMS RADFlame HY2 radiant burners, a new combustion control system and replacement of the automation level. 

The furnace upgrade enables a reduction in natural gas consumption, which directly influences the reduction of the pipe plant's carbon footprint. The process also supports the possibility of using hydrogen, which will contribute to climate neutrality. 

The refurbishment will be completed later this year.