Tata Steel has awarded a contract to ABB, as part of a consortium with processing line and rolling mill supplier Clecim, to deliver automation, electrification, and digital technologies for a new advanced pickling line at its Port Talbot steelworks in the UK.
The new line is scheduled to be operational ahead of the launch of Tata Steel’s planned 3.2-mln-ton electric arc furnace. ABB’s technologies aim to support safe, efficient, and optimized operations. The order was booked in Q1 2025. Financial terms were not disclosed.
ABB will complete commissioning by the end of 2027, in preparation for full operations by 2028.
The pickle line, incorporating Clecim’s mechanical and process equipment, will treat hot rolled coils to remove oxide scale, enhancing surface quality for downstream processing and coating.
ABB will provide automation using its Roll@xA digital solution and ABB Ability System 800xA control platform, which integrates all automation functions into a single environment. Additional digital solutions include ABB Ability Manufacturing Operations Management, Data Analytics Platform for Metals, and the Extended Operator Workplace control center.
ABB’s electrification scope includes medium-voltage switchgear, transformers, UPS systems, low-voltage drives, energy-efficient AC motors, and related infrastructure. The system is designed for future expansion into smart manufacturing, asset management, and connected workforce capabilities.