GMH Group launches second inductive single-bar tempering facility
by David Fleschen
On September 19, 2024, the GMH Group announced the start of construction for its second electrically powered tempering facility for the heat treatment of bar steel (EVA II) in Georgsmarienhütte, just months after the launch of the first facility (EVA I) in February. EVA II is expected to begin operations by the end of 2026.
Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Dr. Robert Habeck visited the Georgsmarienhütte steel site, where he learned about the company's plans to gradually switch its energy supply to electricity and renewable sources.
Dr. Alexander Becker, CEO of GMH Group, stated, “By expanding the inductive single-bar tempering process, we enhance the sustainability of our production while broadening GMH Group's product portfolio. With the new tempering facilities and the transition from natural gas to (eco-)electricity in steel heat treatment, we aim to save over 50,000 tons of CO2 in the next decade.”
Each single tempering facility at GMH can process approximately 17,000 tons of steel annually. While EVA I is designed for smaller diameters of 20 to 60 mm, EVA II will handle bar steel ranging from 35 to 100 mm. Together, both facilities will have a total capacity of 35,000 tons of steel. The electrically powered tempering process allows for the production of high-strength components, including screws and connectors for wind turbines, industrial conveyor systems, and steering rods for various automotive segments.
The total investment for both facilities amounts to 21.5 million euros, with 2.2 million euros funded by the public sector. EVA I received 880,000 euros in support from federal and EU sources in 2023, while EVA II is set to receive 1.32 million euros. Both projects are supported by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action through the "Decarbonization in Industry" program, which utilizes funds from the EU's "NextGenerationEU" initiative.
During his visit, Dr. Habeck toured the facility and was briefed on the heat treatment process at the existing EVA I. He presented a symbolic check to GMH Group's management, emphasizing the importance of transitioning from coal to renewable electricity in production. “Georgsmarienhütte has been a pioneer for over 30 years, implementing technology that is now becoming standard. I appreciate GMH Group's ongoing commitment to automation and energy-efficient processes.”
Dr. Becker expressed gratitude for the political recognition of their efforts toward climate-friendly steel production and highlighted GMH Group's commitment to achieving nearly climate-neutral steel production by 2039. He noted that the transformation, largely funded through the company’s own resources, is both necessary and correct, emphasizing that affordable energy is essential for Germany’s sustainable and competitive future.
As part of its climate neutrality goals, GMH Group aims to halve its greenhouse gas emissions from steel production by 2030, implementing a targeted roadmap to achieve savings in multiple areas. The electrification of production is projected to yield a CO2 reduction of 360,000 tons by 2030, while transitioning energy supply from coal and gas to biomass and hydrogen is expected to further decrease emissions by 65,000 tons.
Source and Photo: GMH Group