Atmospheric risk management
Protection of the air environment
- Air pollution control
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.
- Prevention of scattering of raw materials and dust
To curb emissions of soot and dust generated from factories and raw material yards, we try to enhance their function 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 no change in the implementation status of the environmental measures.
Measures against Risks of Abnormal Generation of NOx
In the heating furnaces where we heat steel materials, generation of NOx is controlled during the heating process of fuels by maintaining an appropriate burning status and adopting burners that produce less NOx. We have also installed NOx removal devices to enable us to operate the furnaces at a lower NOx density than the prescribed level.
Moreover, the operating room of the plant constantly monitors the level of NOx in emission gas. If an abnormal level of NOx (exceeding the operating limit) is detected, after operating trouble or due to some other reason, workers are required to promptly put out the burner.
While we are controlling the amount of NOx emissions and running at a lower level than the prescribed level, if a photochemical smog warning is issued in the area where the steelworks is located, we make adjustment operations, such as by cutting the amount of fuel used, to reduce NOx emissions.
Environmental measures at steelworks
Prevention of scattering of materials and dust
Water and chemical are sprayed on piles of iron ore and coal to restrain the scattering of raw materials.
These trucks spray water on the road and empty lots or clean the road within works to restrict the secondary scattering of dust.
These trucks spray water on the road and empty lots or clean the road within works to restrict the secondary scattering of dust.
A windbreak net is installed to reduce the strength of wind and restrain the scattering of raw materials.
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 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
The wet desulfurization method enables SOx in emission gas to be eliminated.
The dry desulfurization and denitrification methods, using active coke, enables SOx and NOx in emission gas to be eliminated.
Burners featuring reduced levels of NOx generation and outstanding fuel savings have been installed.