ABB is partnering with ArcelorMittal to introduce XCarb steel, made with high levels of recycled steel and powered by 100pct renewable energy, for its Kabeldon power distribution system. This sustainable sourcing agreement reduces the carbon footprint of key electrification equipment by 29pct.
ArcelorMittal’s XCarb steel contains a minimum of 75pct recycled steel and is produced using renewable energy. By utilizing XCarb, the Kabeldon team has achieved a reduction of 60 kg CO2 in manufacturing emissions. Low-carbon steel is a vital part of ABB’s sustainable sourcing strategy and will be a focus for the ABB Smart Power division over the next two years. ABB aims for 80pct of its products and solutions to align with its Circularity Approach by 2030, according to ArcelorMittal.
Kabeldon, designed for outdoor use, offers safe and reliable power distribution and is popular in the utilities sector, as well as for electric vehicle charging and renewable energy applications. The current Kabeldon cabinet has a Type III Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) verified by a third party, and a new EPD for the version featuring XCarb will be issued soon. EPDs provide transparency on the environmental impacts of products throughout their life cycles.
ArcelorMittal’s XCarb steel is produced in electric arc furnaces, using 100pct renewable electricity, resulting in CO2 emissions that are up to 70pct lower than those of conventionally produced steel. The steel supplied to ABB includes Magnelis-coated steel for corrosion resistance and cold-rolled steel, all manufactured and distributed in Europe. Low-carbon steel is crucial for transitioning to sustainable material sourcing, a key performance indicator in ABB’s Circularity Approach. The integration of XCarb directly supports ABB’s goal of having 80pct of its products and systems meet circularity requirements by 2030.
