thyssenkrupp Uhde wins POSCO contract to build low-emission coke oven battery in South Korea, enhancing efficiency and reducing industrial emissions significantly.
thyssenkrupp Uhde has secured a significant engineering and supply contract from POSCO E&C for the development of a modern, low-emission coke oven battery at the POSCO Pohang Steelworks in South Korea. The new installation will replace the aging Battery #3A currently operating at the site, marking an important step in upgrading the facility’s environmental and operational performance. The project highlights the continued collaboration between thyssenkrupp Uhde and POSCO Group companies, a partnership that has existed since the 1970s.
The newly planned coke oven battery will incorporate thyssenkrupp Uhde’s advanced EnviBAT technology. This proprietary system is specifically designed to minimize emissions during the coking process, significantly improving air quality and compliance with modern environmental regulations. In addition to the coke oven battery, the scope of work includes the engineering and supply of a cutting-edge MonoClaus plant, which will replace the existing outdated two-stage Claus units. Furthermore, a new emission-free tar separation facility will be installed to modernize the current infrastructure and enhance overall plant efficiency.
According to Michael Petzinna, Executive Director of the Coke Plant Operating Unit at thyssenkrupp Uhde, this project represents a meaningful contribution toward improving the environmental footprint of the Pohang Steelworks. He emphasized that both companies are committed to deploying state-of-the-art technologies that align with stricter environmental standards while maintaining high productivity levels. He also expressed satisfaction in continuing the long-standing relationship with POSCO and its engineering arm, underscoring the importance of shared expertise and trust in executing complex industrial projects.
This initiative forms part of a broader modernization strategy undertaken by POSCO to upgrade its coke production facilities. As part of this program, older assets such as Battery #3A, originally commissioned in the 1980s, will be decommissioned and replaced with advanced, environmentally friendly systems. The contract awarded to thyssenkrupp Uhde encompasses a comprehensive scope, including technology licensing, detailed engineering, procurement of equipment, on-site supervision, and support during commissioning. Both partners aim to ensure seamless execution by combining their extensive engineering experience with efficient and sustainable technological solutions.
A key feature of the project is the EnviBAT system’s intelligent single-chamber pressure regulation capability. This technology has already been successfully implemented in more than 30 coke oven batteries and over 2,100 ovens worldwide. It continuously monitors and adjusts pressure levels throughout the coking cycle, enabling optimal utilization of raw materials while significantly reducing emissions. By preventing pressure spikes, particularly during the early stages of the coking process, the system effectively eliminates the release of harmful gases through oven doors and the battery roof.
Additional design enhancements further improve environmental performance. These include flexible, spring-loaded oven door systems that ensure tight sealing, as well as water-filled rising pipe covers that prevent gas leakage. Together, these innovations contribute to a cleaner and more efficient coke production process, aligning with global efforts to reduce industrial emissions.
Through this project, thyssenkrupp Uhde and POSCO E&C reaffirm their commitment to sustainable industrial development, setting new benchmarks for low-emission coke production technologies in the steel industry.
