Tata Steel has awarded a contract to a consortium comprising ABB and Clecim for the supply of automation, electrification, and digital systems for a new pickle line at its Port Talbot site in the UK. This facility will support the company’s transition to electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmaking and is part of a broader investment in sustainable production.
The order, booked in the first quarter of 2025, forms part of a £1.25 billion investment in Tata Steel’s Welsh operations, backed by £500 million from the UK Government. The new line is expected to be operational by 2028, in line with the launch of a 3.2-million-ton capacity EAF.
ABB will deliver integrated automation systems using its Roll@xA platform and ABB Ability™ System 800xA®, which enables centralized control of the entire process. These systems are designed to enhance reliability, safety, and performance across the new production line. The project also includes digital tools such as ABB Ability™ Manufacturing Operations Management and the ABB Ability™ Data Analytics Platform, providing real-time insights to support efficient operations.
Additionally, ABB will provide electrification equipment including medium-voltage switchgear, transformers, UPS systems, low-voltage drives and multidrives, energy-efficient AC motors, and control infrastructure. These components will ensure stable, energy-efficient operations of the new line.
The mechanical systems and core processing technology for the pickle line will be supplied by Clecim. The line will handle hot rolled coils, removing surface oxide layers created during rolling to ensure a clean surface for subsequent treatments. This step is critical for achieving consistent product quality and enabling effective coating or finishing processes.
Rajesh Nair, CEO of Tata Steel UK, stated:
“Our advanced pickle line is a key part of our green steelmaking program at Port Talbot. It will allow us to provide high-quality, low-carbon steel products that meet growing market demands. This collaboration supports our long-term strategy for sustainable steel production in South Wales.”
Thomas Comte, CEO of Clecim, added:
“We’re pleased to contribute to this important project by supplying engineering and equipment manufactured in France. This partnership with Tata Steel and ABB reflects the shared commitment to innovation and agile project delivery.”
Frederik Esterhuizen, Global Business Line Manager for Metals at ABB Process Industries, commented:
“Our collaboration with Tata Steel and Clecim is focused on delivering an optimized, future-ready steelmaking process. Together, we aim to set new standards in efficiency, performance, and sustainability.”
This project marks another step in Tata Steel’s efforts to decarbonize its UK operations and aligns with broader industry goals of reducing emissions while maintaining competitive steel production capacity.
ABB is a leading global player in electrification and automation, committed to shaping a more sustainable and resource-efficient world. By combining its deep engineering know-how with advanced digital technologies, ABB supports industries in enhancing performance, efficiency, and sustainability to stay ahead of the curve—what the company defines as being “Engineered to Outrun.” With a legacy spanning over 140 years and a workforce of approximately 110,000 employees across the globe, ABB is listed on both the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB).
The Process Automation division at ABB focuses on automating, electrifying, and digitalizing operations across industries that fulfill critical needs such as energy supply, water management, material processing, manufacturing, and logistics. Backed by a team of around 20,000 professionals and cutting-edge technology, this division supports process, hybrid, and maritime industries in operating more efficiently and sustainably.
