Swiss Steel Group has made an investment in the modernization of its Finkl Steel – Sorel production unit in Sorel-Tracy, Quebec. With this strategic investment, it aims to significantly increase its productivity, energy efficiency and, above all, sustainability.
Green Steel is and remains a focus of the Swiss Steel Group at all locations. The modernization includes replacing the existing 5,000-ton press with a modern 6,700-ton press and replacing a natural gas-powered forge furnace with a more efficient electric furnace, as well as the surrounding areas of these units.
The new 60 MN (6,700 tons) press makes it possible to make the entire process more efficient while developing new capacities. The increased pressing force allows better forming to be achieved, reducing the number of heating processes, which reduces the heating time per part and therefore significantly reduces the carbon footprint of the entire process. The new press is not only more powerful, but also more precise and efficient, resulting in lower material losses and better material efficiency.
Improved quality in tool steel
The introduction of the new press also has an impact on the quality of our tool steels. The even more precise and better forming and the reduced temperature cycles further minimize the internal stress in the material, reducing the susceptibility to cracks and other defects. For our customers, these quality improvements mean longer tool life, less downtime and overall greater efficiency in their manufacturing processes.
Sustainability and customer benefit in focus
The investment in state-of-the-art technology reflects the Swiss Steel Group’s commitment to providing its customers worldwide with the highest quality and sustainable solutions. Switching to an electric furnace instead of a natural gas-powered forge furnace is a further step towards decarbonization and underlines the company’s commitment to continually reduce its environmental footprint. These measures not only contribute to achieving sustainability goals, but also support the company’s customers in achieving their own climate goals.
Innovation and partnership of the Swiss Steel Group
“We are committed to being one of the world’s leading suppliers of forged tool steel by continually improving our quality, productivity and capacity,” said Frank Koch, CEO of the Swiss Steel Group. “This project is a critical step in future-proofing our operations in Quebec while contributing to global decarbonization. We look forward to working with the governments of Canada and Quebec on this important initiative.”
The new press, designed and manufactured by Wepuko Pahnke GmbH, is an essential part of this modernization. The commissioning of the press marks another milestone in the Swiss Steel Group’s technological development and sustainability strategy.
Funding and future prospects
The investment was made possible in part through support from the Government of Canada and the Government of Quebec, underscoring the importance of this initiative to regional industry and global environmental strategy.
With the modernization of the facilities at Finkl Steel – Sorel, the Swiss Steel Group is sending a strong signal for the future of steel production in its international network: innovation, sustainability and the highest quality go hand in hand here.
(Those: Swiss Steel Group)
