Linde Gaz Polska is joining forces with ArcelorMittal Poland to construct a cutting-edge hydrogen production plant at the Kraków branch.
The facility, slated to supply process gas to two galvanizing plants, represents an investment exceeding PLN 100 million. The project is expected to enable hydrogen use at the Kraków site by the end of 2026.
Transitioning Away from Coal and Ammonia
Since 2018, ArcelorMittal Poland Kraków branch has not relied on coal as a fuel source. Additionally, the facility ceased coke production in July 2023.
According to Łukasz Skorupa, COO of Flat Products and Quality and the director of the Kraków branch, the plant currently operates exclusively on natural gas for its hot rolling mill, cold rolling mill, galvanizing, and sheet metal painting lines.
“We are finalizing a hydrogen furnace construction project, which has already eliminated ammonia use in the annealing plant. This initiative, costing PLN 52 million, improves safety and process reliability,” Skorupa explained.
Skorupa added, “Our collaboration with Linde will ensure a stable hydrogen supply for galvanizing plants, allowing us to expand our focus on hydrogen technology”.
New Hydrogen Plant Near Galvanizing Facility
The new hydrogen plant will be located near the galvanizing facilities and will produce hydrogen using natural gas.
Construction has already commenced, with design work currently underway.
This development will bring additional environmental benefits, including the complete removal of ammonia from processes, thereby enhancing the safety of plant operations.
Committed to Decarbonization
ArcelorMittal Poland’s CEO, Wojciech Koszuta commented, “Since 2004, we have invested nearly PLN 2.5 billion in Kraków’s rolling mills and galvanizing plants. Our efforts are focused on improving product quality, diversifying the product range, and reducing environmental impact. The shift to hydrogen and elimination of ammonia reflect our broader commitment to decarbonization, extending beyond steel production to include processing operations”.
Leveraging Expertise in Hydrogen Technology
Linde Gaz Polska brings extensive expertise to this collaboration.
“With over a century of experience in hydrogen production, distribution, and storage, we have provided ArcelorMittal with state-of-the-art solutions. These solutions ensure operational safety and reliability,” added Oleksandra Tuzhylina, CEO, Linde Gaz Polska.
As per the press release, the partnership highlights the companies’ shared commitment. It focuses on advancing sustainable industrial practices and reducing environmental impact through innovation.
