Improving water circularity in steelmaking: Avesta Outokumpu case study

Background

Outokumpu is a global leader in sustainable stainless steel with operations in nearly 30 countries, including mills in Finland, Sweden, Germany, USA, and Mexico. The company recognizes that the best time to start building the circular future for the next generation is today. To exemplify, feedstock consists of 94% recycled materials, and today’s CO₂ emissions have been reduced by 18% since 2016. Water issues are also critical within the company along with the steel industry as a whole. Nearly 30 m³ of fresh water are required to produce one tonne of steel (Colla et al., 2017). Although the majority of this flow results in discharged water, there are opportunities for further reductions or to increase water recycling or re-use. Higher demand of water usage is expected from coming legislation (FMP BREF).

With this theme Outokumpu is actively pursuing ways in which water utilization can be improved at its Avesta mill.

Task description

The overall goal of this thesis project is to present a detailed presentation of water flows within the Outokumpu Avesta mill, and to suggest various strategies to advance the mill towards improved water circularity. Some specific tasks include: literature study on general measures to reduce water flows; how water can be reused or recycled in smart ways; and market survey on flowmeters and other vital equipment. Staff at Outokumpu Avesta will supply maps, flow diagrams, and other key information. Regular visits to the mill are anticipated.

Expected outcomes

• Detailed mapping of existing water flows at Outokumpu Avesta
• Suggestions for water reduction, recycling and reuse

Starting time and duration

Spring semester 2024

Contact persons

Supervisors at KTH:

Examiner:

Supervisors at Outokumpu Avesta:

Nina Leskinen, Sustainability Engineer, nina.leskinen@outokumpu.com, 070-0881718

Joakim Rollin, Environmental Engineer, joakim.rollin@outokumpu.com, 070-0881278