WORLD HEADLINESWorld
SKF ConRo Reduces CO2 Emissions from Steel Production
May 23, 2012 SKF announced that the SKF ConRo roll line unit, a BeyondZero Portfolio product, reduces an estimated average of 1.5 tonnes CO2 per roll line per year. The company notes that in a normal-sized continuous steel casting machine with 400 roll lines, an annual CO2 reduction of approximately 600 tonnes is achievable.
"At SKF, we are dedicated to providing energy-efficient solutions for the steel industry, which is one of the most energy-intensive industries," said Franco Cotti, Manager, SKF Focused Industries, Metal. "In addition to the energy savings, we have developed a unique concept for refurbishing the roll line units which reduces the negative environmental impact associated with metals manufacturing, as well as end-of-life disposal and recycling of roll line components."
SKF ConRo roll line units can reportedly increase reliability and productivity of continuous casting machines. Unlike conventional roll line units, ConRo rolls are re-lubrication free, eliminating grease consumption, the company explained. The ConRo design also is said to extend roll line unit service life by 25% or more. According to SKF, customers can expect up to 50% lower total operating cost per roll line unit.
SKF is a leading global supplier of bearings, seals, mechatronics, lubrication systems, and services that include technical support, maintenance and reliability services, engineering consulting and training. The company is represented in more than 130 countries and has around 15,000 distributor locations worldwide. Annual sales in 2011 were SEK 66,216 million and the number of employees was 46,039.