Swedish Innovator Adopts ABB Technology to Enhance Efficiency in Metals and Mining

• GreenIron selects ABB’s distributed control system to streamline and automate its processes
• Project supports the transition towards a circular economy and significant CO₂ emission reductions
• Latest ABB technology drives optimization and scalability, key to GreenIron’s industrial growth

GreenIron, a pioneering Swedish company specializing in fossil-free metal production, has partnered with ABB to integrate advanced automation solutions at its first commercial facility in Sandviken, Sweden. GreenIron’s patented hydrogen-based reduction process facilitates sustainable metal production, eliminating fossil fuels and drastically cutting emissions.

The company’s innovative approach produces fossil-free sponge iron, a crucial material in steelmaking and other metal industries. Each furnace is expected to cut carbon emissions by approximately 56,000 tonnes annually compared to conventional coal-based techniques. A full-scale implementation of 300 furnaces could offset nearly 35% of Sweden’s yearly CO₂ emissions.

The integration of ABB Ability™ System 800xA® distributed control system (DCS) will play a pivotal role in scaling GreenIron’s operations. This robust automation platform centralizes control, safety, and power management into a single system, offering real-time data insights and optimizing industrial performance. Enhanced process visibility will improve efficiency, support better decision-making, and streamline GreenIron’s expansion.

Championing a circular economy, GreenIron recycles valuable raw materials from industrial residues, landfills, and virgin ore. Its sponge iron output is well-suited for applications in steel production, electric arc furnaces, smelting plants, and foundries, reinforcing a sustainable supply chain.

“Our collaboration with ABB is integral to our scaling efforts and commercial operations,” stated Ulrika Molander, Chief Operating Officer at GreenIron. “ABB’s system empowers us to maintain operational stability, make data-driven decisions, and refine our processes. It’s a transformative phase for our company.”

GreenIron is set to deploy its patented materials reduction technology for industrial applications. Image GreenIron

“Working alongside GreenIron aligns with our commitment to sustainability in the metals industry,” said Martin Björnmalm, Local Business Line Manager for Metals, ABB Process Industries Sweden. “This initiative highlights ABB’s ability to support industries in achieving cleaner and more efficient operations. We are leveraging decades of expertise in mining and metals to enhance productivity, resource efficiency, and cost management through centralized control and intelligent production scheduling.”

ABB Ability™ System 800xA® distributed control system (DCS) will enable the scaling up of GreenIron’s operations. Image ABB

Both ABB and GreenIron’s technologies integrate seamlessly with renewable energy sources like solar and wind, reinforcing a CO₂-free value chain from ore extraction to metal production. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the mining and metal industries contribute approximately 8% of global CO₂ emissions, making such advancements crucial.

In an era of increasing digital transformation, ABB’s System 800xA remains essential for ensuring safety, efficiency, and operational reliability. For over 40 years, ABB’s DCS technology has been at the core of industrial process automation, driving real-time analytics and performance optimization.

ABB is a global leader in electrification and automation, committed to advancing resource-efficient and sustainable industries. By merging engineering expertise with digital innovation, ABB empowers industries to enhance efficiency and productivity. With over 140 years of history and a workforce exceeding 105,000, ABB continues to lead technological advancements. The company’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB).

ABB’s Process Automation division specializes in automating, electrifying, and digitalizing industrial operations across various sectors. With approximately 20,000 employees and cutting-edge solutions, ABB Process Automation enables industries to operate cleaner and more efficiently, aligning with the global push for sustainability.

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