Atmospheric risk management

In order to reduce emissions of sulfur oxides (SOx) and nitrogen oxides (NOx), Nippon Steel is taking measures such as using low-sulfur fuel, adopting low NOx generating burners and installing effective equipment, including equipment that reduces SOx and NOx emissions. To curb emissions of soot and dust generated from factories and raw material yard, we try to enhance their collection by installing dust collectors and prevent scattering of particles by installing windscreens, windbreak trees and sprinklers, based on air pollution risk analysis through scientific simulation. We also conduct constant monitoring and regular patrols to ensure that no abnormal emissions are released.

Since April 2018, mercury concentration in emission gas has been regulated in Japan. At our facilities mercury contained in waste gas is effectively captured by dust collectors or is absorbed by activated carbon.

We have confirmed that all of our facilities, including waste incinerators which are regulated for mercury concentration, conform to the regulations.

For sintering furnaces and electric arc furnaces for steelmaking, we voluntarily manage their mercury concentration in accordance with a voluntary management standard, issued by the Japan Iron and Steel Federation (JISF) in April 2018. We carried out voluntary measurement and confirmed conformity with the voluntary management standard at all facilities subject to the voluntary initiatives in fiscal 2020. These results and evaluations are disclosed on the JISF’s website in around September every year. Through such efforts, we strive to prevent mercury emission into the air.

Emission of SOx and NOx

Emission of SOx and NOx

Environmental measures at steelworks

Prevention of scattering of materials and dust

Spraying of water and chemical in coal yards

Spraying of water and chemical in coal yards

Water and chemical are sprayed on piles of iron ore and coal to restrain the scattering of raw materials.

Sprinkler trucks

Sprinkler trucks

These trucks spray water on the road and empty lots or clean the road within works to restrict the secondary scattering of dust.

Road cleaning trucks

Road cleaning trucks

These trucks spray water on the road and empty lots or clean the road within works to restrict the secondary scattering of dust.

Windbreak net at yards

Windbreak net at yards

A windbreak net is installed to reduce the strength of wind and restrain the scattering of raw materials.

Electric dust collectors

Electric dust collectors

Dust generated in the burning process is collected by two types of dust collectors (electric or with bag filter), depending on the characteristics of the dust (i.e., particle size distribution, emission gas concentration.)

Dust collectors with bag filters

Dust collectors with bag filters

Dust generated in the burning process is collected by two types of dust collectors (electric or with bag filter), depending on the characteristics of the dust (i.e., particle size distribution, emission gas concentration.)

Countermeasures against air pollution

Wet type desulfurization equipment

Wet type desulfurization equipment

The wet desulfurization method enables SOx in emission gas to be eliminated.

Active coke dry type desulfurization equipment

Active coke dry type desulfurization equipment

The dry desulfurization and denitrification methods, using active coke, enables SOx and NOx in emission gas to be eliminated.

Low NOx regenerative burners

Low NOx regenerative burners

Burners featuring reduced levels of NOx generation and outstanding fuel savings have been installed.

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