Uddeholm has an ambitious plan to eliminate fossil carbon dioxide emissions and achieve net zero in production by 2030. By focusing on four strategic areas – electrification, fossil-free energy, energy efficiency and reduction of process emissions – we are taking clear steps towards a more sustainable future scenario.
The electrification journey is already underway. Uddeholm Heat Treatment has 39 furnaces, 29 of which are already electrified, clearly enabling a transition from fossil energy sources to a fossil-free alternative.
A concrete example is Furnace 59, which was originally installed in 2015 as a gas-fired furnace. During this year’s maintenance shutdown, it was converted to electric operation and is now in full production. The furnace has been equipped with a protective nitrogen atmosphere, which ensures optimal material quality by effectively protecting against oxidation during heat treatment.
The conversion of Furnace 59 means an annual reduction in fossil emissions of 700 tonnes of CO₂. In addition to eliminating gas firing, which generates significant amounts of carbon dioxide, electric furnaces are also more energy efficient, further reducing energy consumption. This investment is an example of the company’s commitment, technical expertise and desire to continuously develop its processes in order to deliver world-class, high-performance tool steel – a forward-thinking approach at every step.
Since its inception in 1668, Uddeholm has had a clear focus: to maximise customer value. Today, climate impact and fossil carbon dioxide emissions are the most frequently asked sustainability questions from our customers. By being at the forefront and actively working to reduce our fossil footprint, we are creating a better tomorrow – both for our customers and for ourselves.