Air Liquide strengthens its presence in Finland
In Europe, Finland has a strong position in the science and technology sector, especially with its leading innovation programs. The Finnish metal processing sector is known for its efficient energy and raw material utilisation, as well as for its leading position in various processes, especially protection of the environment. The steel market, driven by the development of products with high added value, needs high quantities of oxygen. Injected in furnaces to produce steel, oxygen increases productivity, reduces energy consumption while limiting greenhouse gas and NOX emissions.
In this context, Oy Polargas Ab, a 100% Air Liquide subsidiary in Finland, has signed a new 15 year agreement for the supply of oxygen, nitrogen and argon to the number one Finnish carbon steel producer Ruukki (Rautaruukki Corporation), in Raahe.
The agreement prolongs the output of the four existing Air Separation Units (ASUs) and also provides for the installation of a new ASU with a capacity of 860 tonnes per day of oxygen. The overall investment amounts to EUR30 million and will be Air Liquide's most important investment in Finland. The new ASU, to be designed and manufactured by Air Liquide Engineering Division, will start operation in third quarter 2007 to fulfil the increasing oxygen demand of Ruukki's steel plant in Raahe.
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