Rohrdorfer Zementwerk GmbH has committed to enhancing its sustainability efforts with a €1.3 million investment in a state-of-the-art dosing silo for granulated blast furnace slag at its Gmunden site. The move underscores the company’s ambition to drive forward its environmental goals while maintaining high standards in cement production.
The new silo is set to revolutionise the cement manufacturing process by enabling the precise dosing of pre-ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBFS) for cement grinding. The introduction of this advanced silo technology will allow for a more efficient cement mix, resulting in significant reductions in carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions. This process is particularly notable as grinding GGBFS and limestone separately optimises the cement recipe, reducing the amount of clinker required in the mix. Clinker, which requires three times the energy to grind compared to limestone, is a major contributor to CO2 emissions in cement production. By cutting clinker use, Rohrdorfer will make substantial strides towards its goal of achieving energy savings and carbon reduction, all without compromising the quality of the concrete.
Project manager Stefan Barwart, Head of Maintenance at Rohrdorfer Zement GmbH, is overseeing the construction of the dosing silo, which is being executed by INOCON Industrial Plants GmbH. The construction phase is expected to last between two to three months, with the plant scheduled to be operational by the first quarter of 2025. The completion of this project marks a pivotal moment in the company’s broader sustainability journey. The Rohrdorfer Group has committed to producing CO2-neutral cement across all its plants by 2038, reflecting its long-term vision for a greener, more sustainable industry. The investment in the dosing silo is a significant step in this direction, demonstrating the company’s resolve to reduce the environmental footprint of its operations while continuing to deliver high-performance products for the construction industry.
