Contractor appointed for 1.8 million tonne pickle line at Port Talbot steelworks
Tata Steel has selected contractors to construct a crucial component in the development of their £1.25 billion green steel project at the Port Talbot steelworks site. The Indian steel company has finalised significant agreements with Clecim and ABB Limited to provide a state-of-the-art pickling line. This project is expected to create job opportunities for 250 local individuals during the construction phase, with work anticipated to commence in the summer of 2025 and a projected completion timeline of three years.
A pickling line within a steelworks is a processing facility that is essential for cleaning hot rolled steel by removing impurities like rust or scale before it undergoes further processing. This milestone was reached following the Neath Port Talbot Council granting full planning permission for a new electric arc furnace in February 2025. The furnace is set to generate up to 3.2 million tonnes of steel annually through the melting of scrap materials, representing a significant advancement in steel production technology.
The recent contracting decision by Tata Steel coincided with criticisms directed at the British Government for its intervention to preserve blast furnaces and primary steel production at British Steel in Scunthorpe. This move raised questions regarding the closure of blast furnaces at the Port Talbot site in 2024, highlighting concerns of potential double standards in government support for the steel industry across different regions.
Tata Steel’s investment in the development of a modern pickle line at the Port Talbot facility demonstrates their commitment to sustainable steelmaking practices. The newly appointed contractors, Clecim and ABB, will be responsible for supplying essential equipment and expertise required for the operation of the 1.8 million tonne pickling line. This facility will play a crucial role in processing hot rolled coils to enhance surface cleanliness, product quality, and bonding capabilities for coatings or finishes.
By integrating advanced technology and best practices, Tata Steel aims to meet the increasing demand for high-quality, low carbon dioxide emissions steel products. The construction of the pickle line is part of a broader strategy to establish a green steel manufacturing hub at the Port Talbot site. The commencement of work is scheduled for the summer of 2025, with an estimated timeframe of three years for project completion, signalling a significant step towards sustainable steel production in the region.
As the steel industry evolves to address environmental challenges and market demands, investments in modern infrastructure like the pickle line at Port Talbot are essential for enhancing efficiency and product quality. The collaboration between Tata Steel, Clecim, and ABB underscores a commitment to innovation and sustainability within the steel manufacturing sector. The development of this cutting-edge facility is poised to contribute to the long-term growth and competitiveness of the Port Talbot steelworks, securing its position as a key player in the global steel market.
In conclusion, the appointment of contractors for the construction of the pickle line represents a milestone in Tata Steel’s ambitious green steel initiative at the Port Talbot site. This strategic investment underscores the company’s dedication to enhancing operational efficiency, product quality, and environmental sustainability in steel production. With work set to commence in the near future, the project is poised to create job opportunities, drive economic growth, and position Port Talbot as a leading hub for innovative and sustainable steel manufacturing practices.