The “Development of an Innovative Cast Steel for Hydrogen Service” project, carried out by a consortium led by PGO S.A. with Łukasiewicz – Upper Silesian Institute of Technology as the research partner, has reached a significant breakthrough stage. The first experimental melt of the material was successfully completed at the PGO S.A. Pioma-Odlewnia foundry, marking the transition to the next phase of the research and development project. The cast samples will now be transferred to the laboratories of Łukasiewicz – GIT for comprehensive testing.
The development of hydrogen technologies requires materials capable of maintaining high strength and reliability under demanding operating conditions. One of the key challenges is mitigating hydrogen embrittlement, a phenomenon that can significantly affect the durability and safety of components operating in hydrogen environments. Addressing this challenge is the aim of the “Development of an Innovative Cast Steel for Hydrogen Service” project, implemented by a consortium led by PGO S.A., with Łukasiewicz – Upper Silesian Institute of Technology serving as the research partner.
On 16 July, the first experimental melt of the newly developed cast steel was carried out at the PGO S.A. Pioma-Odlewnia plant in Piotrków Trybunalski. The process involved melting the material in an electric arc furnace, followed by treatment of the molten steel in an Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD) converter. This approach enabled the achievement of the target chemical composition and a high level of metallurgical purity. The successful completion of this stage confirmed the technological assumptions of the project and paved the way for the next phase of research.
At this stage, Łukasiewicz – Upper Silesian Institute of Technology plays a key role. Comprehensive laboratory investigations will be carried out to evaluate the material’s resistance to hydrogen embrittlement, analyse its microstructure, and verify its mechanical properties and durability under conditions representative of future industrial applications. The results will determine whether the developed cast steel meets the requirements for hydrogen service and will provide the basis for further optimisation of both the alloy composition and the manufacturing process.
The project’s objective is to develop an innovative cast steel with enhanced resistance to hydrogen embrittlement, stable mechanical properties, and improved long-term performance. The material is intended for applications in the gas and energy sectors, supporting the development of advanced hydrogen technologies and the ongoing energy transition.
The project demonstrates the value of close cooperation between science and industry, combining the manufacturing expertise of PGO S.A. with the research capabilities of Łukasiewicz – Upper Silesian Institute of Technology. Together, the partners aim to develop an innovative material that addresses the growing demand for safe and reliable hydrogen infrastructure.
The project is implemented by a consortium consisting of PGO S.A. as the project leader and Łukasiewicz – Upper Silesian Institute of Technology as the consortium partner. The total value of the project amounts to PLN 15,359,886.71, including PLN 8,669,058.18 in funding from the European Funds.
