ABB India and SAIL have signed an MoU to digitally transform the Rourkela Steel Plant, using digital twins to boost efficiency and sustainability in steelmaking.
ABB India Limited and Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) have entered into a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to optimise operations at the Rourkela Steel Plant in Odisha digitally. The agreement aims to modernise the plant's ironmaking and steelmaking processes through the implementation of advanced automation and digital twin technologies.
As part of the collaboration, the Rourkela Steel Plant will share operational data with ABB India to create digital twins of its blast furnaces and basic oxygen furnaces.
Strategic collaboration for digital optimisation
These digital models will enable real-time monitoring, process optimisation, and improved decision-making based on actionable insights derived from mathematical and data-driven models.
The development of this digital twin technology will transform the steel manufacturing processes by providing real-time insights into furnace operations, optimising performance, improving product quality, increasing asset longevity, and remaining competitive in the global market.
Responding to industry challenges
The steel industry is currently going through complex challenges, including heightened environmental regulations, increasing energy costs, and the pressure to remain globally competitive. The Rourkela Steel Plant produced 4.08 million tonnes of saleable steel in FY2024–25 and aims to increase this to 9 million tonnes by 2030. Digital transformation is central to achieving this growth, with a strong emphasis on operational efficiency and environmental sustainability.
ABB India's role in steel transformation
This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to advancing digital innovation and driving industry-wide improvements. By integrating advanced data-driven models and leveraging digital technologies such as digital twins, the initiative aims to enhance operational efficiency while reducing environmental impact.
Towards a more sustainable future
ABB India brings its global expertise in digital industrial solutions to one of India's key public sector enterprises, further contributing to the country's evolving manufacturing sector.
At 11:25 AM on May 22, 2025, the shares of Steel Authority of India Limited were trading 1.18% higher at ₹145.35 per share as compared to the previous close of ₹143.65 per share on the National Stock Exchange (NSE).
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