Technical challenges hinder PNG adoption by refractory manufacturers in India

Despite persistent efforts by government authorities to promote piped natural gas (PNG) for industrial operations, refractory manufacturers in Punjab have raised significant concerns, citing technical challenges. They argue that PNG is unsuitable for high-temperature manufacturing processes and are urging the authorities to permit the use of pet coke under stringent pollution control measures.

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The issue is currently being examined by the National Green Tribunal (NGT), which is hearing a complaint regarding air quality violations by coal-fired furnaces in Mandi Gobindgarh. These furnaces are associated with industries such as recycled steel production, ceramics/refractories, cupola furnaces, and rolling mills.

In response to pollution concerns, the NGT previously directed the industries to transition from coal and furnace oil to cleaner fuels like PNG. However, refractory industry representatives contend that PNG was technically unviable for their operations. They have cited examples where attempts to use PNG led to under-baked products, rendering them unfit for use and highlighting its inadequacy for manufacturing items requiring high baking points.

Refractories are used in aluminium production to line furnaces, ladles, and crucibles. They protect the containers from the corrosive molten metal and flux thus helping to maintain the required temperature. According to the Association of Manufacturers, USA, calcined pet coke is essential for making anodes for smelting and is the only commercially viable method to do so. It boasts a superior combination of electrical conductivity and resistance to chemical and physical degradation in the smelting pot, which contains lower levels of contaminants (i.e. ash).

Meanwhile, in a significant policy shift, the government of India announced on September 4, 2024, that it would ease the import norms for calcined and raw pet coke, expanding the scope of allowable inbound shipments. Previously restricted to the aluminium industry, these imports are now permitted to meet the needs of a broader range of domestic sectors.

However, Vedanta, one of the aluminium giants in India, has continued its endeavour to shift its power sources to renewable energy has led to an agreement with GAIL Gas Limited, a subsidiary of GAIL (India) Limited, for the natural gas supply to Jharsuguda smelter. The transition to natural gas will expectedly become operational from the end of 2025, significantly reducing carbon footprint and minimising CO2 equivalent emissions by 47,292 tonnes annually.