The large dimensions of open-pit mining fields, which can even exceed 50 km2, have motivated the development of large-scale machinery (such as 15m long trucks capable of carrying 400 Tm or excavators over 20m high) that have to work with extreme loads and in highly demanding conditions.
In this context, the NEXTsteel project consortium, aimed at developing “premium” steel components, more sustainable and with advanced properties, to be used in large vehicles aimed at the large-scale mining sector, has dedicated significant efforts to the development of the steel casting process. Since its launch in 2021, NEXTsteel has improved the entire value chain applied to the processing of this type of parts and is currently concentrating its efforts on developing a new grade of steel, specifically designed for large components subjected to very high and variable loads. This new material will improve the service life of the components and, thus, reduce the environmental impact associated with a lower consumption of resources. In addition, renewable energy sources will be used for its processing. Therefore, it will have a positive impact on the sustainability and carbon footprint of these components.
The NEXTsteel project consortium is made up of Piezas y Rodajes, S.A. (PYRSA), the project leader, INSERTEC Industrial Furnaces, the National Metallurgical Research Centre (CENIM) and the AZTERLAN Metallurgy Research Centre.
The NEXTsteel project (CPP2021-008415) is funded by MCIN/AEI/10.13039/501100011033 and by the European Union NextGenerationEU /PRTR.
