PyroGenesis Inc T.PYR

Plasma Torch for Decarbonising the Steel Reheating Furnaces

[BCONTVentures]

Interesting paper on a pilot-scale test of plasma torch application for decarbonising the steel reheating furnaces.  Thanks to @Fanduch:

@Fanduch A pilot-scale test of plasma torch application for decarbonising the steel reheating furnaces https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2451904923001191

@Namazon Great weekend read @Fanduch Towards the end: "at optimum efficiency (plasma torch 90% and rectifier 95%), the proposed system can decrease GHG emissions by 81% compared to the natural-gas" Vale's decision to switch several plants from bunker fuel to natural has always seemed to me to be more of an easy "first step of many" in the goal to decarbonize while plasma is the ultimate "done and dusted" solution.

@pennytodollar Interesting about the different carrier gases in that article. Peter made reference to PYR having a means to handle NOx, feel like there is a patent they have but he also mentioned a "company secret" kind of thing where they didn't want competition seeing how they do it and the iron burner patent means even od a competitor stumbled on it, they still wouldn't be able to use it in iron furnaces

In summary, the current study has proved that it is practical and functionally possible to heat steel using plasma technology. The correct choice of plasma gas and optimization of operating conditions has the potential to provide the steel industry with the desired heated steel quality. Thus, it may offer an intermediate solution to the decarbonisation of the steel reheating furnace with significant modifications likely to be required to limit the gas volume and NOX emissions. An additional power supply and a supply system for certain gases might also be required in real applications. Lastly, as shown by the calculation in this study, the proposed plasma technology can potentially reduce the GHG emission of conventional fossil fuel-based furnaces by up to 81%. Considering the potential, more comprehensive efforts are required to assess further its application on an industrial scale, including its economic aspect.