Energy demand: what, how much and where?
Steel production requires large quantities of energy, even though significantly less energy is needed in an electric steel furnace than in the classic blast furnace. Around a third of our annual power consumption of approx. 800 GWh (approx. 1% of the overall consumption in Bavaria) is used for each of the electric arc furnaces.
On average, approx. 500 kWh of electric power are required for the production of one tonne of liquid steel.
Two thirds of the second largest energy source, natural gas, is used in the pusher-type and walking beam furnaces.
Energy management: why do we do this and what are the benefits?
The issues of energy consumption, energy costs and energy efficiency in a competitive market are fundamental factors for the success of a company. Ecological issues, such as climate change and raw material shortages, play an always more important role alongside the economic aspect. To this end, LSW is voluntarily certified according to DIN EN ISO 50001.
Energy saving costs money!
However, energy saving with a successful Energy Management System does not automatically mean a reduction of production costs. For example, while the annual energy need of the EAF could be reduced by 11 million kWh thanks to the use of bottom rinsers, these savings require each year great investments e.g. in continuous process analysis, involvement in research projects, system modernisation and so on. In 2015, for example, for each euro of cost reduction achieved, more than 8 euros had to be invested.