First PREMIX oxygen enrichment on a billet reheating furnace
Enhanced combustion efficiency
SN Maia Siderurgia Nacional, the largest rebar production plant of the MEGASA Group – a leading European steelmaker, was looking to install a new oxygen system to reduce natural gas consumption, having the possibility to produce oxygen on site at a lower cost.
The project was entrusted to Fives Steel Spain, a subsidiary of Fives Group which had previously modified the combustion system of the same furnace. The company developed a new technology called PREMIXTM, which injects additional oxygen into the combustion air duct upstream of the burners. Oxygen levels were increased to 25% with around 6% fuel savings, exceeding initial energy efficiency expectations.
“By introducing additional oxygen, we are improving combustion, which allows for higher temperatures without increasing fuel usage, contributing to both cost savings and reduced CO2 emissions. This requires minimal investment if oxygen is available at marginal cost in the steel plant, so it can be convenient for many other steelmakers who own their O2 production,” says Oiane Gerrikagoitia, R&D Manager & Thermal Process Technical Expert at Fives Steel Spain.
Collaborative success
The partnership between SN Maia Siderurgia Nacional and Fives was positive and collaborative throughout the project, with strong communication and mutual support from both sides. A key factor was the implementation of pre-assembled technology, which minimized operational downtime.
“The solution was designed to be easily integrated and have a minimal impact on the plant's production. We were able to perform the majority of the installation while the furnace was still running, ensuring that production continued smoothly and without significant delays. We are happy to have strengthened the customer's confidence with this innovative project,” says Koldobika Tafalla González, Services & Technical Expertise Director at Fives Steel Spain.