The plant is part of the HYBRIT project, which is exploring the use hydrogen in lieu of coal to dramatically reduce carbon emissions produced by traditional steelmaking. The collaborative effort between SSAB, LKAB and Vattenfall is expected to produce its first fossil-fuel-free steel products by 2026. 

ABB will supply dry-insulated Resibloc transformers, low-voltage Universal Motor Controller (UMC) switchgears and frequency converters.

The latest version of ABB’s automation solution, ABB Ability, will be installed at the plant, as well as simulation software that will allow the plant to trial processes without affecting production or risking worker safety.

“The goal for the SSAB, LKAB and Vattenfall project is to develop fossil-free iron and steel production and this order is a step toward this,” HYBRIT chairman and SSAB vice president and technical director Martin Pei commented. “We need high-quality solutions and products, which is why we have chosen ABB's electrification and automation solution, and we have high expectations of delivery to the pilot plant.”

The Luleå pilot plant is expected to come on-line in 2020.