CIVS Director Presents at AIST Energy Seminar

On March 13, 2024, CIVS Director Chenn Zhou was invited to present “Saving Energy Using Simulation and Visualization” at the Energy Reduction Fundamentals in the Steel Industry program in Nashville, TN. The seminar is a joint effort between the AIST Energy & Utilities Technology Committee and individual subject experts in the steel industry.

In her presentation, Dr. Zhou gave an overview of industry 4.0 technologies. She specifically described simulation and visualization technologies and how to use them to save energy. She also demonstrated high-impact project examples in various ironmaking and steelmaking processes.

Advanced computer simulation and visualization technologies are increasingly playing a key role in saving energy in steel manufacturing. These technologies can provide coherent understandings of complex phenomena and processes, enabling faster and better decision-making for process design, optimization, troubleshooting, scale-up, and training. Energy saving is one of the primary focuses of SMSVC research.

To date, research outcomes include improved energy efficiencies and the identification of decarbonization and energy reduction opportunities.
Steelmaking is an energy-intensive process, with energy being the second-highest cost of conversion. Those working in the steel industry should pay close attention to how their energy is managed. Energy management and efficiency reduce costs and lower plant emissions, especially carbon dioxide. This seminar is designed to educate attendees on where to find energy-saving opportunities, what can be done to improve energy efficiency, and how to realize savings within their operations.

The Association for Iron & Steel Technology (AIST) is a non-profit organization with over 18,500 members from over 70 countries. AIST represents an extensive network of steel industry professionals with tremendous knowledge and expertise. The AIST Energy & Utilities Technology Committee was formed to promote safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible energy, utilities, and carbon capture & utilization technologies in the production and processing of iron and steel through the facilitation of training, technical presentations, and the exchange of information.