03/01/2024
Redefining success: Conversations with Tecnalia
Why did you join the ACHIEF project and what’s your role?
The ACHIEF project represents a significant research endeavor aimed at delving into the creation of cutting-edge high performance alloys and coatings designed for highly efficient intensive energy processes. In this context, Tecnalia has a wide expertise in the design and development of advanced steel grades for different applications related to intensive energy industries such as energy, mobility and construction. We recognise this as an ideal chance to elevate the efficiency of these industries. In particular, our focus within the project is to contribute with innovative research in the field of novel steel grades for creep applications.
One of the biggest challenges facing industry is to move towards decarbonization, how is Tecnalia supporting its journey to reach zero emissions by 2050? What new technological solutions are you developing?
Of course, one of the biggest challenges confronting the industry today is the imperative of decarbonisation. At Tecnalia, we place significant emphasis on addressing this critical issue by collaborating closely with companies dedicated to developing new technologies that align with the pursuit of Sustainable Development Goals.
For example, within the steelmaking sector, Tecnalia has participated in several innovative research projects aiming to reduce the production of CO2 emissions in the steel production processes by exploring different alternatives and implementing innovative approaches:
- SIDERWIN: Development of an innovative electrochemical process to transform iron oxide into steel metal plates by producing steel through electrolysis without direct CO2 emissions.
- HYINHEAT: Implementation of efficient hydrogen combustion systems to decarbonize heating and melting processes of the aluminum and steel sectors, covering almost their complete process chains.
- CIRMET: Development of a comprehensive AI-based data collection and management tool to optimize industrial processes tested and validated at the steelmaking sector.
What have been the main challenges you are facing to develop steels with increased resistance based on Artificial Intelligence?
The field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) represents one of the most powerful tools for fostering across diverse research domains. In this line, at TECNALIA we employ the Integrated Computational Materials Engineering (ICME) methodology in order to enhance/accelerate the design and development of advanced materials. However, it is important to note that the efficacy of these models depends on their prior development and access to reliable information. Consequently, conducting comprehensive material characterisation and in-depth analysis of the processes to be simulated becomes a prerequisite.
What are the main results you have achieved so far as partner in the ACHIEF project to drive energy efficiency in heavy industries?
One of the main results emerging from the ACHIEF project is the design and development of a novel steel grade capable to resist higher stress levels at higher temperature for a longer period of time, in comparison to the steel grades currently used for creep applications. This significant achievement directly translates to heightened efficiency within the energy industry.
How would you explain to a wider public what will be the impact of the ACHIEF project?
One of the primary and direct impacts of the ACHIEF project is the reduction of CO2 emissions. The innovative advanced steels developed in the project play a pivotal role in enhancing energy sectors, in particular in the advancement of more efficient supercritical and ultra-supercritical power generation plants.
The enhanced creep properties of these advanced steels enable the development of robust tubes capable of withstanding higher steam temperatures, and thus increasing the efficiency of various systems like boilers and turbines, contributing to reducing direct emissions. The innovation can be potentially extended to other sectors such as: oil and gas, chemical and petrochemical, heat transfer, automotive, mechanical and construction industries.
How do you see the future of the ACHIEF project?
The innovative research conducted within the ACHIEF project holds promise for future extensions into other materials and processes by implementing the new strategies developed as well as by using the models created with the data and information gathered. Such an approach could potentially enable researchers to go beyond the existing targets set in the ACHIEF project, opening doors to broader applications and innovations.
TECNALIA MAIN RESPONSIBLES TEAM
Lorena María Callejo, Iron and Steel PhD Researcher
Jose Ignacio Barbero, Project Manager
