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GE Vernova has been selected by SMS group to provide a modular multilevel converter (MMC)-based direct feed system for an electric arc furnace (EAF) at SSAB’s steel plant in Sweden.
SMS is developing a 280MVA EAF for SSAB’s steel plant in Oxelösund. The new EAF is part of SSAB's initiative to produce fossil-free steel by 2030.
The EAF will equip SSAB's newly planned melt shop and is expected to improve operational efficiency, extend the equipment's lifespan, and reduce maintenance costs.
GE Vernova's Power Conversion business is at the forefront of this project.
The EAF technology is expected to support SSAB in transitioning its steel mill to more sustainable operations.
Electric arc furnaces require substantial electrical energy, posing challenges to power grid stability.
The MMC-based direct feed system developed by GE Vernova utilises IEGT technology tailored for EAF applications. This innovation is set to enable smooth and efficient operations of the EAF at SSAB's steel mill without causing disruptions to the power grid.
The advanced direct feed system is claimed to be designed to maintain high power quality and reliability, which is crucial for the steel mill's transition to more sustainable and environmentally friendly production processes.
SMS Group executive vice-president Jan Heimann said: “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 its targets in terms of power quality and efficiency.
“We are excited to contribute to a project that sets a benchmark for the entire industry.”
The equipment is set to be delivered and installed in the first half of 2026, with the EAF's first heat planned for Q4 2026.
GE Vernova power conversion business leader Ed Torres said: “Our power system was chosen because it helps the Oxelösund plant meet their strict electricity quality standards.
“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.
“The system includes two parallel converter lines installed at 300m and 400m from the EAF, directly connecting to the 34kV bus. This setup mitigates flicker, maintains very low harmonics, and ensures a unified power factor.”
Earlier this month, GE Vernova expanded its collaboration with AWS to offer its APM and CERius software via the AWS Cloud.
"GE Vernova to supply MMC-based feed system for SSAB" was originally created and published by Energy Monitor, a GlobalData owned brand.