PGO S.A. leads industrial energy transition – launch of a project to develop hydrogen-resistant cast steel
PGO S.A., the largest manufacturer of castings and forgings in Poland, has initiated a groundbreaking research and development project aimed at creating innovative cast steel designed to operate in hydrogen environments. The project is being carried out in partnership with Łukasiewicz – Upper Silesian Institute of Technology (Łukasiewicz – GIT). Its total value amounts to PLN 15,359,886.71, of which PLN 8,669,058.18 is co-financed under the European Funds for a Modern Economy program. The R&D phase has just begun and will continue for the next three years.
Technologies powering the future of energy
PGO S.A. is actively contributing to the energy transformation by becoming a key player in a modern, eco-conscious industry reflected across multiple sectors. With the development of a new type of cast steel, the company will be able to produce components for devices operating with hydrogen – the fuel of the future. PGO S.A. has substantial experience in this field, having delivered products to some of the largest gas power plants in the world, including those involved in hydrogen transportation. The new project will allow the company to further advance its expertise in materials designed to endure extreme operating conditions.
"Energy transformation is one of the most critical challenges facing modern industry. Through this project, PGO S.A. not only addresses market needs but also actively participates in shaping a future based on clean energy sources. Our experience in delivering components to the world's largest gas power plants gives us a solid foundation for developing technologies for the hydrogen economy," says Łukasz Petrus, CEO of PGO S.A.
A milestone toward a low-emission economy
As part of the R&D module, research will be conducted to develop and test cast steel with increased resistance to hydrogen embrittlement. As a result, the produced components will offer extended service life under high pressure and maintain stable mechanical properties across a wide temperature range. Products based on this new technology will be used in the gas and energy sectors, where PGO S.A. is already an important supplier.
"The project 'Development of innovative cast steel for hydrogen operation' is a milestone in the transformation of Polish industry and the development of a low-emission economy. Participation in this initiative demonstrates how effectively science and business can collaborate to create modern technologies," says Professor Adam Zieliński, PhD, DSc, General Director of Łukasiewicz – GIT.
AOD – reliability in extreme conditions
It is worth mentioning that the development of hydrogen-compatible cast steel is the next stage in the ongoing collaboration between PGO S.A. and Łukasiewicz – GIT. In 2021, the PIOMA plant (part of PGO) in Piotrków Trybunalski completed a four-year project to implement AOD (Argon Oxygen Decarburization) technology. This method allows for precise adjustment of chemical composition, achieving high-quality steel, shorter processing times, and reduced production costs. As such, AOD is a key enabler in developing advanced materials resistant to extreme working conditions.
Components produced using AOD-refined steel are used in:
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modern power generation (turbine and boiler parts),
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offshore wind energy,
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rail transport,
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chemical and petrochemical industries – oil & gas exploration onshore and offshore,
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broad industrial valve applications,
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automotive and aerospace sectors.
The hydrogen steel and AOD projects represent a significant expansion of PGO S.A.'s production capabilities and expertise, in direct response to the evolving needs of clients in the above industries. The new R&D initiative, together with previous technology implementations, further solidifies the company’s position as an industrial partner capable of addressing global energy challenges.
