A new era of steelmaking has begun at Al Qaryan Steel in Dammam, Saudi Arabia: the long-established manufacturer is investing in the latest generation of induction furnaces, relying on ABP Induction’s proven technology. Awarded in September 2022 and now entering the commissioning phase, the project highlights Al Qaryan Steel’s trust in its long-standing partner ABP – and at the same time sending a clear signal for sustainable, efficient, and future-proof steel production.
The project holds special significance for both parties. Al Qaryan Steel, a leading producer in the region, has been successfully using ABP technology since 2017. Several systems have been in daily operation for years. The positive experience and collaborative partnership were decisive factors in choosing ABP for the new melting plant as well. “During this time, both sides have learned a lot from each other and built up expertise together,” explains Alexander Keller, Head of System Sales at ABP Induction. “This has not only led to a close partnership, but also allowed us to directly incorporate the experience gained over the past years into the new plant – enhanced by our latest technological developments.” Over time, induction furnaces have proven to be highly effective units for melting in steel production and are especially used in mini and micro steel mills for manufacturing both construction-grade and high-alloy steels.
Specifically, ABP is supplying two high-performance medium-frequency induction furnaces of the IFM9 type, powered by a TWIN-POWER® energy system delivering 14,000 kW. Thanks to the TWIN-POWER® principle, converter power can be distributed freely and continuously between both furnaces, without the need for additional switches. This enables scenarios like melting with one furnace and simultaneous sintering or holding with the other one. The principle involves an increased degree of utilization of the converter, lower maintenance costs and lower investment costs compared to separate energy supplies.
This significantly increases Al Qaryan‘s melting capacity and creates the basis for highly available and reliable production. The scope of delivery also includes the EcoTop hood for environmentally friendly exhaust management, remote service options, and the latest DICU 3 controller. The package is rounded out by ABP’s melting processor PRODAPT® Enterprise with crucible monitoring system: PRODAPT® handles demand-driven energy control for melting, holding, cold start-up, sintering, and communication with charge preparation.
The decision to go with ABP was driven not only by its technology. Service, support, and long-term care also played a key role. “Ultimately, it wasn’t just the equipment – it was also the collaboration and our service offering that made the difference,” emphasizes Keller. For Al Qaryan Steel, the investment marks a strategically significant move: it boosts production capacity, enhances system availability, and increases reliability through the deployment of cutting-edge technology. At the same time, the project clearly reflects a strong commitment to sustainability. The use of induction technology enables a drastic reduction in CO₂ emissions – and in many cases, it even allows for nearly climate-neutral operations. “With the right scrap and process management systems, we can now achieve the highest quality standards in the final product – while reducing both investment and operating costs and significantly improving our environmental footprint,” Keller adds. In addition, “the use of induction furnace technology also leads to improved working conditions.”
Installation and commissioning of the new plant began in 2025, with final acceptance scheduled for this autumn. It’s already clear that the project is not only a success for ABP, but also holds significant relevance for the entire Middle Eastern market. It strengthens ABP’s position in the region, provides a strong reference for future projects, and reinforces the company’s role as a technology leader in the field of induction technology.
This move reflects Al Qaryan Steel’s commitment to both continuity and progress: its long-standing collaboration with ABP is being carried forward through a state-of-the-art plant concept that delivers not only economic efficiency but also meets the demands of an increasingly sustainable industry. For ABP Induction, the order affirms its strategy of supporting customers worldwide on their journey toward an efficient, digital, and climate-friendly future.
About ABP Induction
ABP Induction is a leading provider of induction melting and heating equipment, aftermarket services, and digitalization solutions for the global foundry, forging, and steel industries. ABP has sales, production, and customer service locations in the US, Germany, Sweden, Mexico, Thailand, India, China, and South Africa. Since 2018, ABP Induction has been part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Primetals Technologies. For more information about ABP Induction, visit www.abpinduction.com.
