The new EAF, located in Oxelösund, has its first heat scheduled for the fourth quarter of 2026.
Powered by a 280 MVA transformer, an installation such as this requires highly advanced technology to meet the limitations imposed by the grid authority in terms of flicker, power factor, and harmonic distortion.
SSAB has now entrusted SMS group with the integration of a direct feed (DF) system from GE Vernova to be fitted in the new furnace at Oxelösund. The technology being implemented at SSAB ensures the new electric arc furnace operates smoothly and efficiently without disrupting the grid, thereby contributing to the reduction of CO2 emissions.
The modular multilevel converter (MMC) based direct feed system, supplied by GE Vernova’s Power Conversion business, is an indirect power supply built on IEGT (injection-enhanced gate transistor) technology and designed specifically for EAFs, which seeks to ensure that the new EAF operates smoothly and efficiently without disrupting the grid.
“This project is a significant step forward in our journey towards sustainable steelmaking. Powering the furnace with a fast digital control system will enable SSAB to achieve their targets in terms of power quality and efficiency. We are excited to contribute to a project that sets a benchmark for the entire industry,” said Jan Heimann, Executive Vice President of SMS group.
“Our power system was chosen because it helps the Oxelösund plant meet their strict electricity quality standards,” said Ed Torres, Business Line Leader & COO of GE Vernova’s Power Conversion business. “By using our system, the plant is expected to reduce electrical disturbances and operate more efficiently. This is a crucial step towards making steel production more sustainable and reducing carbon emissions in the industry.” To achieve the desired EAF power quality contribution and grid performance requirements, the system includes two parallel converter lines installed at 300 and 400 meters from the EAF, directly connected to the 34 kV bus. This setup mitigates flicker, maintains very low harmonics, and ensures a unified power factor.
