LKAB opens new pelletizing research laboratory
LKAB's new research laboratory for pelletizing was officially opened in Malmberget on Wednesday. The new laboratory facility is an important puzzle piece in LKAB's drive to maintain its position as the world's leading pellet manufacturer. The investment amounts to 80 million kronor. Ten new jobs will be created.
"LKAB's competitive advantage is based on a fundamental understanding of the function of our products in customers' processes and on the world-class level of our own manufacturing process. Investing in a pelletizing research center is a way of further strengthening LKAB's advantage as a technology- and quality-leading pellet supplier," said LKAB President and CEO Lars-Eric Aaro at the official opening.
Balling pellets
The new lab will work both with the 'cold end' of the process, i.e. balling the pellets, and with the 'hot end' of the pelletizing process, which involves sintering. This is a very complex area that includes process technology, mineral science, energy engineering, chemistry, environmental aspects and more.
"In recent years we have carried out our development work in relatively limited spaces. In the new building we will be able to do experiments at the gram level as well as conducting pilot-scale trials," says Kent Tano, head of LKAB's R&D unit.
For pellet expert and senior researcher Seija Forsmo, the new building is an ideal starting point.
World-class research
"Instruments and equipment are our tools. But for this to be an innovative research center, we need people and knowledge. The world's best pellet products demand the best research. We will create an environment that attracts the very best talent," says Seija Forsmo.
"The new ores from Svappavaara will pose a big challenge. The creation of LKAB's new lab has therefore been perfectly timed," says Per-Erik Lindvall, Senior Vice President Technology & Business Development, LKAB.
New jobs
The new lab will necessitate hiring.
"To further strengthen our research organization we will need to recruit about ten new employees as a direct consequence of investment in the new pelletizing research center," adds Per-Erik Lindvall.
"By engaging in a consistent development effort on all fronts, we can now deliver the world's most climate-smart pellets; pellets which also give the customer greater added value than our competitors' products. We strive to be the world's best manufacturer of iron ore pellets," concludes Per-Erik Lindvall.
/caption 1/
LKAB's President and CEO Lars-Eric Aaro at the official opening of LKAB's new pelletizing research center in Malmberget on Wednesday.
Photo: Fredric Alm / LKAB
/caption 2/
"The world's best pellet products demand the world's best research," says senior researcher Dr. Seija Forsmo, pellet expert at LKAB R&D.
Photo: Fredric Alm / LKAB
/caption 3/
LKAB Green Pellets are the key to the mining company's success. The pellet reduces energy consumption in blast furnaces and contributes to lower carbon dioxide emissions. Now, the company is developing the next generation of pellets to maintain its technological lead.
Photo: Fredric Alm / LKAB
No comments:
Post a Comment