Tata Steel advances green steelmaking plans with new pickle line
Image: Tata Steel
Tata Steel has signed major contracts with Clecim and ABB Limited to supply its cutting-edge pickling line – a key component in steel processing – for its Port Talbot site in Wales, UK.
The partnership marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey to green steelmaking at Port Talbot, forming part of its £1.25 billion investment in the site, which includes £500 million in Government support. The project is expected to employ 250 local people during the construction phase.
As leader of the consortium, global supplier of steel processing lines and rolling mills, Clecim, together with global technology leader, ABB, will supply essential equipment and expertise needed to power the site’s brand new 1.8 million tonne pickle line.
The new line will process hot rolled coils to eliminate oxide scale formed during the steel rolling process, ensuring a clean surface for further processing, improving product quality, and enhancing the bonding of coatings or finishes.
Tata Steel CEO, Rajesh Nair, said: “Our new and advanced pickle line will form a major part of our green steelmaking facility at Port Talbot, ensuring we can supply downstream businesses with the high-quality, low CO₂ steel products our customers are demanding.
“This collaboration represents another critical step toward securing a sustainable future for steel production in South Wales – made possible by the expertise and innovation provided by these best-in-class business partners.”
Clecim will design and supply mechanical and process equipment, while ABB will deliver electrification and automation technology required for the cutting-edge pickle line. With the pre-engineering phase of the project completed, both companies are now moving forward with detailed engineering.
Thomas Comte, CEO of Clecim, commented: “We are proud to help pioneer this project by combining engineering, sourcing, and mechatronic products manufactured in France, to make this phase of Port Talbot’s transformation a reality.
“This achievement is a testament to the strong partnership we’ve developed with Tata Steel and ABB over the past several months. Together, we are working in an agile and innovative manner to successfully install the new pickle line.
“Looking ahead, we will continue our close relationship with colleagues at Port Talbot to oversee the quality of the line post-installation, driving sustainability and operational excellence for many years to come.”
Frederik Esterhuizen, ABB global business line manager, said: “Achieving decarbonisation targets in industry requires strong collaboration, and together with Clecim, we are confident in our ability to drive progress for both our customers and the industry.
“We look forward to working closely with Tata Steel and Clecim to ensure the safe and sustainable production of steel for this groundbreaking project, and for generations to come.”
Industry minister, Sarah Jones, said: “This is yet another positive step towards securing a bright future for steel in South Wales, following the improved deal for Port Talbot’s transition we agreed with Tata Steel and the next phase of our steel plan.
“Today’s news will help Welsh steelmaking grow and attract further investment as part of our Plan for Change.”
