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8.3.2012 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
70/63
COMMISSION IMPLEMENTING DECISION
of 28 February 2012
establishing the best available techniques (BAT) conclusions under Directive 2010/75/EU of the
European Parliament and of the Council on industrial emissions for iron and steel production
(notified under document C(2012) 903)
(Text with EEA relevance)
(2012/135/EU)
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION,
(4) In
accordance with Article 14(3) of Directive
2010/75/EU, BAT conclusions are to be the reference
for setting the permit conditions for installations
covered by Chapter 2 of that Directive.
Having regard to the Treaty on the Functioning of the European
Union,
(5) Article
15(3)
of
Directive
2010/75/EU
requires
the
Having regard to Directive 2010/75/EU of the European
competent authority to set emission limit values that
Parliament and of the Council of 24 November 2010 on
ensure that, under normal operating conditions,
industrial emissions (integrated pollution prevention and
emissions do not exceed the emission levels associated
control) ( 1 ), and in particular Article 13(5) thereof,
with the best available techniques as laid down in the
decisions on BAT conclusions referred to in Article 13(5)
of that Directive.
Whereas:
(6) Article
15(4)
of
Directive
2010/75
provides
for
dero
(1) Article
13(1)
of
Directive
2010/75/EU
requires
the
gations from the requirement laid down in Article 15(3)
Commission to organise an exchange of information
only where the costs associated with the achievement of
on industrial emissions between it and Member States,
emissions levels disproportionately outweigh the environ
the industries concerned and non-governmental organi
mental benefits due to the geographical location, the
sations promoting environmental protection in order to
local environmental conditions or the technical character
facilitate the drawing up of best available techniques
istics of the installation concerned.
(BAT) reference documents as defined in Article 3(11)
of that Directive.
(7) Article
16(1)
of
Directive
2010/75/EU
provides
that
the
(2) In
accordance with Article 13(2) of Directive
monitoring requirements in the permit referred to in
2010/75/EU, the exchange of information is to address
point (c) of Article 14(1) are to be based on the
the performance of installations and techniques in terms
conclusions on monitoring as described in the BAT
of emissions, expressed as short- and long-term averages,
conclusions.
where appropriate, and the associated reference
conditions, consumption and nature of raw materials,
water consumption, use of energy and generation of
waste and the techniques used, associated monitoring,
(8) In
accordance with Article 21(3) of Directive
cross-media effects, economic and technical viability
2010/75/EU, within four years of publication of
and developments therein and also the best available
decisions on BAT conclusions, the competent authority
techniques and emerging techniques identified after
is to reconsider and, if necessary, update all the permit
considering the issues mentioned in points (a) and (b)
conditions and ensure that the installation complies with
of Article 13(2) of that Directive.
those permit conditions.
(3)
‘BAT conclusions’ as defined in Article 3(12) of Directive
2010/75/EU are the key element of BAT reference
(9) Commission
Decision
of
16
May
2011
establishing
a
documents and lay down the conclusions on best
forum for the exchange of information pursuant to
available techniques, their description, information to
Article 13 of the Directive 2010/75/EU on industrial
assess their applicability, the emission levels associated
emissions ( 2 ) established a forum composed of represen
with the best available techniques, associated monitoring,
tatives of Member States, the industries concerned and
associated consumption levels and, where appropriate,
non-governmental organisations promoting environ
relevant site remediation measures.
mental protection.
( 1 ) OJ L 334, 17.12.2010, p. 17.
( 2 ) OJ C 146, 17.5.2011, p. 3.

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L 70/64
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Official Journal of the European Union
8.3.2012
(10) In accordance with Article 13(4) of Directive 2010/75/EU, the Commission obtained the opinion ( 1 )
of that forum on the proposed content of the BAT reference document for iron and steel production
on 13 September 2011 and made it publicly available.
(11) The measures provided for in this Decision are in accordance with the opinion of the Committee
established by Article 75(1) of Directive 2010/75/EU,
HAS ADOPTED THIS DECISION:
Article 1
The BAT conclusions for iron and steel production are set out in the Annex to this Decision.
Article 2
This Decision is addressed to the Member States.
Done at Brussels, 28 February 2012.
For the Commission
Janez POTONIK
Member of the Commission
( 1 ) http://circa.europa.eu/Public/irc/env/ied/library?l=/ied_art_13_forum/opinions_article

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EN
8.3.2012 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
70/65
ANNEX
BAT CONCLUSIONS FOR IRON AND STEEL PRODUCTION
SCOPE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
66
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
67
DEFINITIONS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
67
1.1. General BAT Conclusions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
68
1.1.1. Environmental management systems . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
68
1.1.2. Energy management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
69
1.1.3. Material management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
71
1.1.4. Management of process residues such as by-products and waste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
72
1.1.5. Diffuse dust emissions from materials storage, handling and transport of raw materials and (intermediate)
products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
72
1.1.6. Water and waste water management . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
75
1.1.7. Monitoring . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
75
1.1.8. Decommissioning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
76
1.1.9. Noise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
77
1.2. BAT Conclusions For Sinter Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
77
1.3. BAT Conclusions For Pelletisation Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
83
1.4. BAT Conclusions For Coke Oven Plants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
85
1.5. BAT Conclusions For Blast Furnaces . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
89
1.6. BAT Conclusions For Basic Oxygen Steelmaking And Casting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
92
1.7. BAT Conclusions For Electric Arc Furnace Steelmaking And Casting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
96

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L 70/66
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
8.3.2012
SCOPE
These BAT conclusions concern the following activities specified in Annex I to Directive 2010/75/EU, namely:
— activity 1.3: coke production
— activity 2.1: metal ore (including sulphide ore) roasting and sintering
— activity 2.2: production of pig iron or steel (primary or secondary fusion) including continuous casting, with a
capacity exceeding 2,5 tonnes per hour.
In particular, the BAT conclusions cover the following processes:
— the loading, unloading and handling of bulk raw materials
— the blending and mixing of raw materials
— the sintering and pelletisation of iron ore
— the production of coke from coking coal
— the production of hot metal by the blast furnace route, including slag processing
— the production and refining of steel using the basic oxygen process, including upstream ladle desulphurisation,
downstream ladle metallurgy and slag processing
— the production of steel by electric arc furnaces, including downstream ladle metallurgy and slag processing
— continuous casting (thin slab/thin strip and direct sheet casting (near-shape))
These BAT conclusions do not address the following activities:
— production of lime in kilns, covered by the Cement, Lime and Magnesium Oxide Manufacturing Industries BREF
(CLM)
— the treatment of dusts to recover non-ferrous metals (e.g. electric arc furnace dust) and the production of ferroalloys,
covered by the Non-Ferrous Metals Industries BREF (NFM)
— sulphuric acid plants in coke ovens, covered by the Large Volume Inorganic Chemicals-Ammonia, Acids and Fertilisers
Industries (LVIC-AAF BREF).
Other reference documents which are of relevance for the activities covered by these BAT conclusions are the following:
Reference documents Activity
Large Combustion Plants BREF (LCP) Combustion
plants
with
a
rated
thermal
input
of
50
MW
or more
Ferrous Metals Processing Industry BREF (FMP) Downstream
processes
like
rolling,
pickling,
coating,
etc.
Continuous casting to the thin slab/thin strip and direct
sheet casting (near-shape)

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Reference documents Activity
Emissions from Storage BREF (EFS) Storage
and
handling
Industrial Cooling Systems BREF (ICS) Cooling
systems
General Principles of Monitoring (MON) Emissions
and
consumptions
monitoring
Energy Efficiency BREF (ENE) General
energy
efficiency
Economic and Cross-Media Effects (ECM) Economic
and
cross-media
effects
of
techniques
The techniques listed and described in these BAT conclusions are neither prescriptive nor exhaustive. Other techniques
may be used that ensure at least an equivalent level of environmental protection.
GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
The environmental performance levels associated with BAT are expressed as ranges, rather than as single values. A range
may reflect the differences within a given type of installation (e.g. differences in the grade/purity and quality of the final
product, differences in design, construction, size and capacity of the installation) that result in variations in the environ
mental performances achieved when applying BAT
EXPRESSION OF EMISSION LEVELS ASSOCIATED WITH THE BEST AVAILABLE TECHNIQUES (BAT-AELs)
In these BAT conclusions, BAT-AELs for air emissions are expressed as either:
— mass of emitted substances per volume of waste gas under standard conditions (273,15 K, 101,3 kPa), after deduction
of water vapour content, expressed in the units g/Nm 3 , mg/Nm 3 , μg/Nm 3 or ng/Nm 3 ; or
— mass of emitted substances per unit of mass of products generated or processed (consumption or emission factors),
expressed in the units kg/t, g/t, mg/t or μg/t.
and BAT-AELs for emissions to water are expressed as:
— mass of emitted substances per volume of waste water, expressed in the units g/l, mg/l or μg/l.
DEFINITIONS
For the purposes of these BAT conclusions:
— ‘new plant’ means: a plant introduced on the site of the installation following the publication of these BAT
conclusions or a complete replacement of a plant on the existing foundations of the installation following the
publication of these BAT conclusions
— ‘existing plant’ means: a plant which is not a new plant
— ‘NO X ’ means: the sum of nitrogen oxide (NO) and nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) expressed as NO 2
— ‘SO X ’ means: the sum of sulphur dioxide (SO 2 ) and sulphur trioxide (SO 3 ) expressed as SO 2
— ‘HCl’ means: all gaseous chlorides expressed as HCl
— ‘HF’ means: all gaseous fluorides expressed as HF

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L 70/68
EN
Official Journal of the European Union
8.3.2012
1.1. General BAT Conclusions
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in this section are generally applicable.
The process specific BAT included in the Sections 1.2 – 1.7 apply in addition to the general BAT mentioned in this
Section.
1.1.1. E n v i r o n m e n t a l m a n a g e m e n t s y s t e m s
1. BAT is to implement and adhere to an environmental management system (EMS) that incorporates all of the
following features:
I. commitment of management, including senior management;
II. definition of an environmental policy that includes continuous improvement for the installation by the management;
III. planning and establishing the necessary procedures, objectives and targets, in conjunction with financial planning
and investment;
IV. implementation of the procedures paying particular attention to:
(i) structure and responsibility
(ii) training, awareness and competence
(iii) communication
(iv) employee involvement
(v) documentation
(vi) efficient process control
(vii) maintenance programmes
(viii) emergency preparedness and response
(ix) safeguarding compliance with environmental legislation;
V. checking performance and taking corrective action, paying particular attention to:
(i) monitoring and measurement (see also the Reference Document on the General Principles of Monitoring)
(ii) corrective and preventive action
(iii) maintenance of records
(iv) independent (where practicable) internal and external auditing in order to determine whether or not the EMS
conforms to planned arrangements and has been properly implemented and maintained;
VI. review of the EMS and its continuing suitability, adequacy and effectiveness by senior management;
VII. following the development of cleaner technologies;

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EN
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Union L
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VIII. consideration for the environmental impacts from the eventual decommissioning of the installation at the stage of
designing a new plant, and throughout its operating life;
IX. application of sectoral benchmarking on a regular basis.
Applicability
The scope (e.g. level of details) and nature of the EMS (e.g. standardised or non-standardised) will generally be related to
the nature, scale and complexity of the installation, and the range of environmental impacts it may have.
1.1.2. E n e r g y m a n a g e m e n t
2. BAT is to reduce thermal energy consumption by using a combination of the following techniques:
I. improved and optimised systems to achieve smooth and stable processing, operating close to the process parameter
set points by using
(i) process control optimisation including computer-based automatic control systems
(ii) modern, gravimetric solid fuel feed systems
(iii) preheating, to the greatest extent possible, considering the existing process configuration.
II. recovering excess heat from processes, especially from their cooling zones
III. an optimised steam and heat management
IV. applying process integrated reuse of sensible heat as much as possible.
In the context of energy management, see the Energy Efficiency BREF (ENE).
Description of BAT I.i
The following items are important for integrated steelworks in order to improve the overall energy efficiency:
— optimising energy consumption
— online monitoring for the most important energy flows and combustion processes at the site including the moni
toring of all gas flares in order to prevent energy losses, enabling instant maintenance and achieving an undisrupted
production process
— reporting and analysing tools to check the average energy consumption of each process
— defining specific energy consumption levels for relevant processes and comparing them on a long-term basis
— carrying out energy audits as defined in the Energy Efficiency BREF, e.g. to identify cost-effective energy savings
opportunities.
Description of BAT II – IV
Process integrated techniques used to improve energy efficiency in steel manufacturing by improved heat recovery include:
— combined heat and power production with recovery of waste heat by heat exchangers and distribution either to other
parts of the steelworks or to a district heating network
— the installation of steam boilers or adequate systems in large reheating furnaces (furnaces can cover a part of the
steam demand)

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L 70/70
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Official Journal of the European Union
8.3.2012
— preheating of the combustion air in furnaces and other burning systems to save fuel, taking into consideration adverse
effects, i.e. an increase of nitrogen oxides in the off-gas
— the insulation of steam pipes and hot water pipes
— recovery of heat from products, e.g. sinter
— where steel needs to be cooled, the use of both heat pumps and solar panels
— the use of flue-gas boilers in furnaces with high temperatures
— the oxygen evaporation and compressor cooling to exchange energy across standard heat exchangers
— the use of top recovery turbines to convert the kinetic energy of the gas produced in the blast furnace into electric
power.
Applicability of BAT II – IV
Combined heat and power generation is applicable for all iron and steel plants close to urban areas with a suitable heat
demand. The specific energy consumption depends on the scope of the process, the product quality and the type of
installation (e.g. the amount of vacuum treatment at the basic oxygen furnace (BOF), annealing temperature, thickness of
products, etc.).
3. BAT is to reduce primary energy consumption by optimisation of energy flows and optimised utilisation of the
extracted process gases such as coke oven gas, blast furnace gas and basic oxygen gas.
Description
Process integrated techniques to improve energy efficiency in an integrated steelworks by optimising process gas utili
sation include:
— the use of gas holders for all by-product gases or other adequate systems for short-term storage and pressure holding
facilities
— increasing pressure in the gas grid if there are energy losses in the flares – in order to utilise more process gases with
the resulting increase in the utilisation rate
— gas enrichment with process gases and different calorific values for different consumers
— heating fire furnaces with process gas
— use of a computer-controlled calorific value control system
— recording and using coke and flue-gas temperatures
— adequate dimensioning of the capacity of the energy recovery installations for the process gases, in particular with
regard to the variability of process gases.
Applicability
The specific energy consumption depends on the scope of the process, the product quality and the type of installation
(e.g. the amount of vacuum treatment at the BOF, annealing temperature, thickness of products, etc.).
4. BAT is to use desulphurised and dedusted surplus coke oven gas and dedusted blast furnace gas and basic oxygen
gas (mixed or separate) in boilers or in combined heat and power plants to generate steam, electricity and/or heat using
surplus waste heat for internal or external heating networks, if there is a demand from a third party.
Applicability
The cooperation and agreement of a third party may not be within the control of the operator, and therefore may not be
within the scope of the permit.

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8.3.2012 Official
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European
Union L
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5. BAT
is
to
minimise
electrical
energy
consumption
by
using
one
or
a
combination
of
the
following
techniques:
I. power management systems
II. grinding, pumping, ventilation and conveying equipment and other electricity-based equipment with high energy
efficiency.
Applicability
Frequency controlled pumps cannot be used where the reliability of the pumps is of essential importance for the safety of
the process.
1.1.3. M a t e r i a l m a n a g e m e n t
6. BAT is to optimise the management and control of internal material flows in order to prevent pollution, prevent
deterioration, provide adequate input quality, allow reuse and recycling and to improve the process efficiency and
optimisation of the metal yield.
Description
Appropriate storage and handling of input materials and production residues can help to minimise the airborne dust
emissions from stockyards and conveyor belts, including transfer points, and to avoid soil, groundwater and runoff water
pollution (see also BAT 11).
The application of an adequate management of integrated steelworks and residues, including wastes, from other instal
lations and sectors allows for a maximised internal and/or external use as raw materials (see also BAT 8, 9 and 10).
Material management includes the controlled disposal of small parts of the overall quantity of residues from an integrated
steelworks which have no economic use.
7. In order to achieve low emission levels for relevant pollutants, BAT is to select appropriate scrap qualities and other
raw materials. Regarding scrap, BAT is to undertake an appropriate inspection for visible contaminants which might
contain heavy metals, in particular mercury, or might lead to the formation of polychlorinated dibenzodioxins/furans
(PCDD/F) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB).
To improve the use of scrap, the following techniques can be used individually or in combination:
— specification of acceptance criteria suited to the production profile in purchase orders of scrap
— having a good knowledge of scrap composition by closely monitoring the origin of the scrap; in exceptional cases, a
melt test might help characterise the composition of the scrap
— having adequate reception facilities and check deliveries
— having procedures to exclude scrap that is not suitable for use in the installation
— storing the scrap according to different criteria (e.g. size, alloys, degree of cleanliness); storing of scrap with potential
release of contaminants to the soil on impermeable surfaces with a drainage and collection system; using a roof which
can reduce the need for such a system
— putting together the scrap load for the different melts taking into account the knowledge of composition in order to
use the most suitable scrap for the steel grade to be produced (this is essential in some cases to avoid the presence of
undesired elements and in other cases to take advantage of alloy elements which are present in the scrap and needed
for the steel grade to be produced)
— prompt return of all internally-generated scrap to the scrapyard for recycling
— having an operation and management plan
— scrap sorting to minimise the risk of including hazardous or non-ferrous contaminants, particularly polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCB) and oil or grease. This is normally done by the scrap supplier but the operator inspects all scrap loads
in sealed containers for safety reasons. Therefore, at the same time, it is possible to check, as far as practicable, for
contaminants. Evaluation of the small quantities of plastic (e.g. as plastic coated components) may be required
— radioactivity control according to the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Expert Group
framework of recommendations

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— implementation of the mandatory removal of components which contain mercury from End-of-Life Vehicles and
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) by the scrap processors can be improved by:
— fixing the absence of mercury in scrap purchase contracts
— refusal of scrap which contains visible electronic components and assemblies.
Applicability
The selection and sorting of scrap might not be entirely within the control of the operator.
1.1.4. M a n a g e m e n t o f p r o c e s s r e s i d u e s s u c h a s b y - p r o d u c t s a n d w a s t e
8.
BAT for solid residues is to use integrated techniques and operational techniques for waste minimisation by internal
use or by application of specialised recycling processes (internally or externally).
Description
Techniques for the recycling of iron-rich residues include specialised recycling techniques such as the OxyCup shaft
furnace, the DK process, smelting reduction processes or cold bonded pelletting/briquetting as well as techniques for
production residues mentioned in Sections 9.2 – 9.7.
Applicability
As the mentioned processes may be carried out by a third party, the recycling itself may not be within the control of the
operator of the iron and steel plant, and therefore may not be within the scope of the permit.
9. BAT is to maximise external use or recycling for solid residues which cannot be used or recycled according to BAT
8, wherever this is possible and in line with waste regulations. BAT is to manage in a controlled manner residues which
can neither be avoided nor recycled.
10. BAT is to use the best operational and maintenance practices for the collection, handling, storage and transport of
all solid residues and for the hooding of transfer points to avoid emissions to air and water.
1.1.5. D i f f u s e d u s t e m i s s i o n s f r o m m a t e r i a l s s t o r a g e , h a n d l i n g a n d t r a n s p o r t o f r a w
m a t e r i a l s a n d ( i n t e r m e d i a t e ) p r o d u c t s
11. BAT
is
to
prevent
or
reduce
diffuse
dust
emissions
from
materials
storage,
handling
and
transport
by
using
one
or
a combination of the techniques mentioned below.
If abatement techniques are used, BAT is to optimise the capture efficiency and subsequent cleaning through appropriate
techniques such as those mentioned below. Preference is given to the collection of the dust emissions nearest to the
source.
I. General techniques include:
— the setting up within the EMS of the steelworks of an associated diffuse dust action plan;
— consideration of temporary cessation of certain operations where they are identified as a source of PM 10 causing
a high ambient reading; in order to do this, it will be necessary to have sufficient PM 10 monitors, with associated
wind direction and strength monitoring, to be able to triangulate and identify key sources of fine dust.
II. Techniques for the prevention of dust releases during the handling and transport of bulk raw materials include:
— orientation of long stockpiles in the direction of the prevailing wind
— installing wind barriers or using natural terrain to provide shelter
— controlling the moisture content of the material delivered
— careful attention to procedures to avoid the unnecessary handling of materials and long unenclosed drops
— adequate containment on conveyors and in hoppers, etc.

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— the use of dust-suppressing water sprays, with additives such as latex, where appropriate
— rigorous maintenance standards for equipment
— high standards of housekeeping, in particular the cleaning and damping of roads
— the use of mobile and stationary vacuum cleaning equipment
— dust suppression or dust extraction and the use of a bag filter cleaning plant to abate sources of significant dust
generation
— the application of emissions-reduced sweeping cars for carrying out the routine cleaning of hard surfaced roads.
III. Techniques for materials delivery, storage and reclamation activities include:
— total enclosure of unloading hoppers in a building equipped with filtered air extraction for dusty materials, or
hoppers should be fitted with dust baffles and the unloading grids coupled to a dust extraction and cleaning
system
— limiting the drop heights if possible to a maximum of 0,5 m
— the use of water sprays (preferably using recycled water) for dust suppression
— where necessary, the fitting of storage bins with filter units to control dust
— the use of totally enclosed devices for reclamation from bins
— where necessary, the storage of scrap in covered, and hard surfaced areas to reduce the risk of ground
contamination (using just in time delivery to minimise the size of the yard and hence emissions)
— minimisation of the disturbance of stockpiles
— restriction of the height and a controlling of the general shape of stockpiles
— the use of in-building or in-vessel storage, rather than external stockpiles, if the scale of storage is appropriate
— the creation of windbreaks by natural terrain, banks of earth or the planting of long grass and evergreen trees in
open areas to capture and absorb dust without suffering long-term harm
— hydro-seeding of waste tips and slag heaps
— implementation of a greening of the site by covering unused areas with top soil and planting grass, shrubs and
other ground covering vegetation
— the moistening of the surface using durable dust-binding substances
— the covering of the surface with tarpaulins or coating (e.g. latex) stockpiles
— the application of storage with retaining walls to reduce the exposed surface
— when necessary, a measure could be to include impermeable surfaces with concrete and drainage.
IV. Where fuel and raw materials are delivered by sea and dust releases could be significant, some techniques include:
— use by operators of self-discharge vessels or enclosed continuous unloaders. Otherwise, dust generated by grab-
type ship unloaders should be minimised through a combination of ensuring adequate moisture content of the
material is delivered, by minimising drop heights and by using water sprays or fine water fogs at the mouth of
the ship unloader hopper

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— avoiding seawater in spraying ores or fluxes as this results in a fouling of sinter plant electrostatic precipitators
with sodium chloride. Additional chlorine input in the raw materials may also lead to rising emissions (e.g. of
polychlorinated dibenzodioxins/furans (PCDD/F)) and hamper filter dust recirculation
— storage of powdered carbon, lime and calcium carbide in sealed silos and conveying them pneumatically or
storing and transferring them in sealed bags.
V. Train or truck unloading techniques include:
— if necessary due to dust emission formation, use of dedicated unloading equipment with a generally enclosed
design.
VI. For highly drift-sensitive materials which may lead to significant dust release, some techniques include:
— use of transfer points, vibrating screens, crushers, hoppers and the like, which may be totally enclosed and
extracted to a bag filter plant
— use of central or local vacuum cleaning systems rather than washing down for the removal of spillage, since the
effects are restricted to one medium and the recycling of spilt material is simplified.
VII. Techniques for the handling and processing of slag include:
— keeping stockpiles of slag granulate damp for slag handling and processing since dried blast furnace slag and
steel slag can give rise to dust
— use of enclosed slag-crushing equipment fitted with efficient extraction and bag filters to reduce dust emissions.
VIII. Techniques for handling scrap include:
— providing scrap storage under cover and/or on concrete floors to minimise dust lift-off caused by vehicle
movements
IX. Techniques to consider during material transport include:
— the minimisation of points of access from public highways
— the employment of wheel-cleaning equipment to prevent the carryover of mud and dust onto public roads
— the application of hard surfaces to the transport roads (concrete or asphalt) to minimise the generation of dust
clouds during materials transport and the cleaning of roads
— the restriction of vehicles to designated routes by fences, ditches or banks of recycled slag
— the damping of dusty routes by water sprays, e.g. at slag-handling operations
— ensuring that transport vehicles are not overfull, so as to prevent any spillage
— ensuring that transport vehicles are sheeted to cover the material carried
— the minimisation of numbers of transfers
— use of closed or enclosed conveyors
— use of tubular conveyors, where possible, to minimise material losses by changes of direction across sites usually
provided by the discharge of materials from one belt onto another
— good practice techniques for molten metal transfer and ladle handling
— dedusting of conveyor transfer points.

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1.1.6. W a t e r a n d w a s t e w a t e r m a n a g e m e n t
12. BAT for waste water management is to prevent, collect and separate waste water types, maximising internal
recycling and using an adequate treatment for each final flow. This includes techniques utilising, e.g. oil interceptors,
filtration or sedimentation. In this context, the following techniques can be used where the prerequisites mentioned are
present:
— avoiding the use of potable water for production lines
— increasing the number and/or capacity of water circulating systems when building new plants or modernising/re
vamping existing plants
— centralising the distribution of incoming fresh water
— using the water in cascades until single parameters reach their legal or technical limits
— using the water in other plants if only single parameters of the water are affected and further usage is possible
— keeping treated and untreated waste water separated; by this measure it is possible to dispose of waste water in
different ways at a reasonable cost
— using rainwater whenever possible.
Applicability
The water management in an integrated steelworks will primarily be constrained by the availability and quality of fresh
water and local legal requirements. In existing plants the existing configuration of the water circuits may limit applica
bility.
1.1.7. M o n i t o r i n g
13. BAT is to measure or assess all relevant parameters necessary to steer the processes from control rooms by means
of modern computer-based systems in order to adjust continuously and to optimise the processes online, to ensure stable
and smooth processing, thus increasing energy efficiency and maximising the yield and improving maintenance practices.
14.
BAT is to measure the stack emissions of pollutants from the main emission sources from all processes included in
the Sections 1.2 – 1.7 whenever BAT-AELs are given and in process gas-fired power plants in iron and steel works.
BAT is to use continuous measurements at least for:
— primary emissions of dust, nitrogen oxides (NO X ) and sulphur dioxide (SO 2 ) from sinter strands
— nitrogen oxides (NO X ) and sulphur dioxide (SO 2 ) emissions from induration strands of pelletisation plants
— dust emissions from blast furnace cast houses
— secondary emissions of dust from basic oxygen furnaces
— emissions of nitrogen oxides (NO X ) from power plants
— dust emissions from large electric arc furnaces.
For other emissions, BAT is to consider using continuous emission monitoring depending on the mass flow and emission
characteristics.
15. For relevant emission sources not mentioned in BAT 14, BAT is to measure the emissions of pollutants from all
processes included in the Sections 1.2 – 1.7 and from process gas-fired power plants within iron and steel works as well
as all relevant process gas components/pollutants periodically and discontinuously. This includes the discontinuous
monitoring of process gases, stack emissions, polychlorinated dibenzodioxins/furans (PCDD/F) and monitoring the
discharge of waste water, but excludes diffuse emissions (see BAT 16).

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Official Journal of the European Union
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Description (relevant for BAT 14 and 15)
The monitoring of process gases provides information about the composition of process gases and about indirect
emissions from the combustion of process gases, such as emissions of dust, heavy metals and SO x .
Stack emissions can be measured by regular, periodic discontinuous measurements at relevant channelled emission
sources over a sufficiently long period, to obtain representative emission values.
For monitoring the discharge of waste water a great variety of standardised procedures exist for sampling and analyzing
water and waste water, including:
— a random sample which refers to a single sample taken from a waste water flow
— a composite sample, which refers to a sample taken continuously over a given period, or a sample consisting of
several samples taken either continuously or discontinuously over a given period and blended
— a qualified random sample shall refer to a composite sample of at least five random samples taken over a maximum
period of two hours at intervals of no less than two minutes, and blended.
Monitoring should be done according to the relevant EN or ISO standards. If EN or ISO standards are not available,
national or other international standards should be used that ensure the provision of data of an equivalent scientific
quality.
16. BAT is to determine the order of magnitude of diffuse emissions from relevant sources by the methods mentioned
below. Whenever possible, direct measurement methods are preferred over indirect methods or evaluations based on
calculations with emission factors.
— Direct measurement methods where the emissions are measured at the source itself. In this case, concentrations and
mass streams can be measured or determined.
— Indirect measurement methods where the emission determination takes place at a certain distance from the source; a
direct measurement of concentrations and mass stream is not possible.
— Calculation with emission factors.
Description
Direct or quasi-direct measurement
Examples for direct measurements are measurements in wind tunnels, with hoods or other methods like quasi-emissions
measurements on the roof of an industrial installation. For the latter case, the wind velocity and the area of the roofline
vent are measured and a flow rate is calculated. The cross-section of the measurement plane of the roofline vent is
subdivided into sectors of identical surface area (grid measurement).
Indirect measurements
Examples of indirect measurements include the use of tracer gases, reverse dispersion modelling (RDM) methods and the
mass balance method applying light detection and ranging (LIDAR).
Calculation of emissions with emission factors
Guidelines using emission factors for the estimation of diffuse dust emissions from storage and handling of bulk materials
and for the suspension of dust from roadways due to traffic movements are:
— VDI 3790 Part 3
— US EPA AP 42
1.1.8. D e c o m m i s s i o n i n g
17. BAT
is
to
prevent
pollution
upon
decommissioning
by
using
necessary
techniques
as
listed
below.
Design considerations for end-of-life plant decommissioning:
I. giving consideration to the environmental impact from the eventual decommissioning of the installation at the stage
of designing a new plant, as forethought makes decommissioning easier, cleaner and cheaper

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II. decommissioning poses environmental risks for the contamination of land (and groundwater) and generates large
quantities of solid waste; preventive techniques are process-specific but general considerations may include:
(i) avoiding underground structures
(ii) incorporating features that facilitate dismantling
(iii) choosing surface finishes that are easily decontaminated
(iv) using an equipment configuration that minimises trapped chemicals and facilitates drain-down or cleaning
(v) designing flexible, self-contained units that enable phased closure
(vi) using biodegradable and recyclable materials where possible.
1.1.9. N o i s e
18. BAT
is
to
reduce
noise
emissions
from
relevant
sources
in
the
iron
and
steel
manufacturing
processes
by
using
one
or more of the following techniques depending on and according to local conditions:
— implementation of a noise-reduction strategy
— enclosure of the noisy operations/units
— vibration insulation of operations/units
— internal and external lining made of impact-absorbent material
— soundproofing buildings to shelter any noisy operations involving material transformation equipment
— building noise protection walls, e.g. the construction of buildings or natural barriers, such as growing trees and bushes
between the protected area and the noisy activity
— outlet silencers on exhaust stacks
— lagging ducts and final blowers which are situated in soundproof buildings
— closing doors and windows of covered areas.
1.2. BAT Conclusions For Sinter Plants
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in this section can be applied to all sinter plants.
Air emissions
19. BAT
for
blending/mixing
is
to
prevent
or
reduce
diffuse
dust
emissions
by
agglomerating
fine
materials
by
adjusting the moisture content (see also BAT 11).
20. BAT for primary emissions from sinter plants is to reduce dust emissions from the sinter strand waste gas by
means of a bag filter.
BAT for primary emissions for existing plants is to reduce dust emissions from the sinter strand waste gas by using
advanced electrostatic precipitators when bag filters are not applicable.
The BAT-associated emission level for dust is < 1 – 15 mg/Nm 3 for the bag filter and < 20 – 40 mg/Nm 3 for the
advanced electrostatic precipitator (which should be designed and operated to achieve these values), both determined as a
daily mean value.
B a g F i l t e r
Description
Bag filters used in sinter plants are usually applied downstream of an existing electrostatic precipitator or cyclone but can
also be operated as a standalone device.

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L 70/78
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Official Journal of the European Union
8.3.2012
Applicability
For existing plants requirements such as space for a downstream installation to the electrostatic precipitator can be
relevant. Special regard should be given to the age and the performance of the existing electrostatic precipitator.
A d v a n c e d e l e c t r o s t a t i c p r e c i p i t a t o r
Description
Advanced electrostatic precipitators are characterised by one or a combination of the following features:
— good process control
— additional electrical fields
— adapted strength of the electric field
— adapted moisture content
— conditioning with additives
— higher or variably pulsed voltages
— rapid reaction voltage
— high energy pulse superimposition
— moving electrodes
— enlarging the electrode plate distance or other features which improves the abatement efficiency.
21. BAT for primary emissions from sinter strands is to prevent or reduce mercury emissions by selecting raw
materials with a low mercury content (see BAT 7) or to treat waste gases in combination with activated carbon or
activated lignite coke injection.
The BAT-associated emissions level for mercury is < 0,03 – 0,05 mg/Nm 3 , as the average over the sampling period
(discontinuous measurement, spot samples for at least half an hour).
22. BAT
for
primary
emissions
from
sinter
strands
is
to
reduce
sulphur
oxide
(SO X ) emissions by using one or a
combination of the following techniques:
I. lowering the sulphur input by using coke breeze with a low sulphur content
II. lowering the sulphur input by minimisation of coke breeze consumption
III. lowering the sulphur input by using iron ore with a low sulphur content
IV. injection of adequate adsorption agents into the waste gas duct of the sinter strand before dedusting by bag filter
(see BAT 20)
V. wet desulphurisation or regenerative activated carbon (RAC) process (with particular consideration for the
prerequisites for application).
The BAT-associated emission level for sulphur oxides (SO X ) using BAT I – IV is < 350 – 500 mg/Nm 3 , expressed as
sulphur dioxide (SO 2 ) and determined as a daily mean value, the lower value being associated with BAT IV.
The BAT-associated emission level for sulphur oxides (SO X ) using BAT V is < 100 mg/Nm 3 , expressed as sulphur dioxide
(SO 2 ) and determined as a daily mean value.
Description of the RAC process mentioned under BAT V
Dry desulphurisation techniques are based on an adsorption of SO 2 by activated carbon. When the SO 2 -laden activated
carbon is regenerated, the process is called regenerated activated carbon (RAC). In this case, a high quality, expensive
activated carbon type may be used and sulphuric acid (H 2 SO 4 ) is yielded as a by-product. The bed is regenerated either
with water or thermally. In some cases, for ‘fine-tuning’ downstream of an existing desulphurisation unit, lignite-based
activated carbon is used. In this case, the SO 2 -laden activated carbon is usually incinerated under controlled conditions.

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8.3.2012 Official
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The RAC system can be developed as a single-stage or a two-stage process.
In the single-stage process, the waste gases are led through a bed of activated carbon and pollutants are adsorbed by the
activated carbon. Additionally, NO X removal occurs when ammonia (NH 3 ) is injected into the gas stream before the
catalyst bed.
In the two-stage process, the waste gases are led through two beds of activated carbon. Ammonia can be injected before
the bed to reduce NO X emissions.
Applicability of techniques mentioned under BAT V
Wet desulphurisation: The requirements of space may be of significance and may restrict the applicability. High
investment and operational costs and significant cross-media effects such as slurry generation and disposal and additional
waste water treatment measures, have to be taken into account. This technique is not used in Europe at the time of
writing, but might be an option where environmental quality standards are unlikely to be met through the application of
other techniques.
RAC: Dust abatement should be installed prior to the RAC process to reduce the inlet dust concentration. Generally the
layout of the plant and space requirements are important factors when considering this technique, but especially for a site
with more than one sinter strand.
High investment and operational costs, in particular when high quality, expensive, activated carbon types may be used
and a sulphuric acid plant is needed, have to be taken into account. This technique is not used in Europe at the time of
writing, but might be an option in new plants targeting SO X , NO X , dust and PCDD/F simultaneously and in circumstances
where environmental quality standards are unlikely to be met through the application of other techniques.
23. BAT
for
primary
emissions
from
sinter
strands
is
to
reduce
total
nitrogen
oxides
(NO X ) emissions by using one or
a combination of the following techniques:
I. process integrated measures which can include:
(i) waste gas recirculation
(ii) other primary measures, such as the use of anthracite or the use of low-NO X burners for ignition
II. end-of-pipe techniques which can include
(i) the regenerative activated carbon (RAC) process
(ii) selective catalytic reduction (SCR).
The BAT-associated emission level for nitrogen oxides (NO X ) using process integrated measures is < 500 mg/Nm 3 ,
expressed as nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) and determined as a daily mean value.
The BAT-associated emission level for nitrogen oxides (NO X ) using RAC is < 250 mg/Nm 3 and using SCR it is
< 120 mg/Nm 3 , expressed as nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ), related to an oxygen content of 15 % and determined as daily
mean values.
Description of waste gas recirculation under BAT I.i
In the partial recycling of waste gas, some portions of the sinter waste gas are recirculated to the sintering process. Partial
recycling of waste gas from the whole strand was primarily developed to reduce waste gas flow and thus the mass
emissions of major pollutants. Additionally it can lead to a decrease in energy consumption. The application of waste gas
recirculation requires special efforts to ensure that the sinter quality and productivity are not affected negatively. Special
attention needs to be paid to carbon monoxide (CO) in the recirculated waste gas in order to prevent carbon monoxide
poisoning of employees. Various processes have been developed such as:
— partial recycling of waste gas from the whole strand
— recycling of waste gas from the end sinter strand combined with heat exchange
— recycling of waste gas from part of the end sinter strand and use of waste gas from the sinter cooler
— recycling of parts of waste gas to other parts of the sinter strand.

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L 70/80
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Official Journal of the European Union
8.3.2012
Applicability of BAT I.i
The applicability of this technique is site specific. Accompanying measures to ensure that sinter quality (cold mechanical
strength) and strand productivity are not negatively affected must be considered. Depending on local conditions, these can
be relatively minor and easy to implement or, on the contrary, they can be of a more fundamental nature and may be
costly and difficult to introduce. In any case, the operating conditions of the strand should be reviewed when this
technique is introduced.
In existing plants, it may not be possible to install a partial recycling of waste gas due to space restrictions.
Important considerations in determining the applicability of this technique include:
— initial configuration of the strand (e.g. dual or single wind-box ducts, space available for new equipment and, when
required, lengthening of the strand)
— initial design of the existing equipment (e.g. fans, gas cleaning and sinter screening and cooling devices)
— initial operating conditions (e.g. raw materials, layer height, suction pressure, percentage of quick lime in the mix,
specific flow rate, percentage of in-plant reverts returned in the feed)
— existing performance in terms of productivity and solid fuel consumption
— basicity index of the sinter and composition of the burden at the blast furnace (e.g. percentage of sinter versus pellet
in the burden, iron content of these components).
Applicability of other primary measures under BAT I.ii
The use of anthracite depends on the availability of anthracites with a lower nitrogen content compared to coke breeze.
Description and applicability of the RAC process under BAT II.i see BAT 22.
Applicability of the SCR process under BAT II.ii
SCR can be applied within a high dust system, a low dust system and as a clean gas system. Until now, only clean gas
systems (after dedusting and desulphurisation) have been applied at sinter plants. It is essential that the gas is low in dust
(< 40 mg dust/Nm 3 ) and heavy metals, because they can make the surface of the catalyst ineffective. Additionally,
desulphurisation prior to the catalyst might be required. Another prerequisite is a minimum off-gas temperature of
about 300 °C. This requires an energy input.
The high investment and operational costs, the need for catalyst revitalisation, NH 3 consumption and slip, the accumu
lation of explosive ammonium nitrate (NH 4 NO 3 ), the formation of corrosive SO 3 and the additional energy required for
reheating which can reduce the possibilities for recovery of sensible heat from the sinter process, all may constrain the
applicability. This technique might be an option where environmental quality standards are unlikely to be met through
the application of other techniques.
24. BAT for primary emissions from sinter strands is to prevent and/or reduce emissions of polychlorinated diben
zodioxins/furans (PCDD/F) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) by using one or a combination of the following tech
niques:
I. avoidance of raw materials which contain polychlorinated dibenzodioxins/furans (PCDD/F) and polychlorinated
biphenyls (PCB) or their precursors as much as possible (see BAT 7)
II. suppression of polychlorinated dibenzodioxins/furans (PCDD/F) formation by addition of nitrogen compounds
III. waste gas recirculation (see BAT 23 for description and applicability).
25. BAT for primary emissions from sinter strands is to reduce emissions of polychlorinated dibenzodioxins/furans
(PCDD/F) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB) by the injection of adequate adsorption agents into the waste gas duct of
the sinter strand before dedusting with a bag filter or advanced electrostatic precipitators when bag filters are not
applicable (see BAT 20).
The BAT- associated emission level for polychlorinated dibenzodioxins/furans (PCDD/F) is < 0,05 – 0,2 ng I-TEQ/Nm 3 for
the bag filter and < 0,2 – 0,4 ng-I-TEQ/Nm 3 for the advanced electrostatic precipitator, both determined for a 6 – 8 hour
random sample under steady-state conditions.

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8.3.2012 Official
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European
Union L
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26. BAT for secondary emissions from sinter strand discharge, sinter crushing, cooling, screening and conveyor
transfer points is to prevent dust emissions and/or to achieve an efficient extraction and subsequently to reduce dust
emissions by using a combination of the following techniques:
I. hooding and/or enclosure
II. an electrostatic precipitator or a bag filter.
The BAT-associated emission level for dust is < 10 mg/Nm 3 for the bag filter and < 30 mg/Nm 3 for the electrostatic
precipitator, both determined as a daily mean value.
Water and waste water
27. BAT is to minimise water consumption in sinter plants by recycling cooling water as much as possible unless
once-through cooling systems are used.
28. BAT is to treat the effluent water from sinter plants where rinsing water is used or where a wet waste gas
treatment system is applied, with the exception of cooling water prior to discharge by using a combination of the
following techniques:
I. heavy metal precipitation
II. neutralisation
III. sand filtration.
The BAT-associated emission levels, based on a qualified random sample or a 24-hour composite sample, are:
— suspended solids <
30
mg/l
— chemical oxygen demand (COD ( 1 )) <
100
mg/l
— heavy metals <
0,1
mg/l
(sum of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), mercury (Hg), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn)).
Production residues
29.
BAT is to prevent waste generation within sinter plants by using one or a combination of the following techniques
(see BAT 8):
I. selective on-site recycling of residues back to the sinter process by excluding heavy metals, alkali or chloride-enriched
fine dust fractions (e.g. the dust from the last electrostatic precipitator field)
II. external recycling whenever on-site recycling is hampered.
BAT is to manage in a controlled manner sinter plant process residues which can neither be avoided nor recycled.
30. BAT is to recycle residues that may contain oil, such as dust, sludge and mill scale which contain iron and carbon
from the sinter strand and other processes in the integrated steelworks, as much as possible back to the sinter strand,
taking into account the respective oil content.
( 1 ) In some cases, TOC is measured instead of COD (in order to avoid HgCl 2 used in the analysis for COD). The correlation between COD
and TOC should be elaborated for each sinter plant case by case. The COD/TOC ratio may vary approximately between two and four.

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L 70/82
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Official Journal of the European Union
8.3.2012
31. BAT is to lower the hydrocarbon content of the sinter feed by appropriate selection and pretreatment of the
recycled process residues.
In all cases, the oil content of the recycled process residues should be < 0,5 % and the content of the sinter feed < 0,1 %.
Description
The input of hydrocarbons can be minimised, especially by the reduction of the oil input. Oil enters the sinter feed
mainly by addition of mill scale. The oil content of mill scales can vary significantly, depending on their origin.
Techniques to minimise oil input via dusts and mill scale include the following:
— limiting input of oil by segregating and then selecting only those dusts and mill scale with a low oil content
— the use of ‘good housekeeping’ techniques in the rolling mills can result in a substantial reduction in the contaminant
oil content of mill scale
— de-oiling of mill scale by:
— heating the mill scale to approximately 800 °C, the oil hydrocarbons are volatilised and clean mill scale is yielded;
the volatilised hydrocarbons can be combusted.
— extracting oil from the mill scale using a solvent.
Energy
32. BAT
is
to
reduce
thermal
energy
consumption
within
sinter
plants
by
using
one
or
a
combination
of
the
following
techniques:
I. recovering sensible heat from the sinter cooler waste gas
II. recovering sensible heat, if feasible, from the sintering grate waste gas
III. maximising the recirculation of waste gases to use sensible heat (see BAT 23 for description and applicability).
Description
Two kinds of potentially reusable waste energies are discharged from the sinter plants:
— the sensible heat from the waste gases from the sintering machines
— the sensible heat of the cooling air from the sinter cooler.
Partial waste gas recirculation is a special case of heat recovery from waste gases from sintering machines and is dealt
with in BAT 23. The sensible heat is transferred directly back to the sinter bed by the hot recirculated gases. At the time
of writing (2010), this is the only practical method of recovering heat from the waste gases.
The sensible heat in the hot air from the sinter cooler can be recovered by one or more of the following ways:
— steam generation in a waste heat boiler for use in the iron and steel works
— hot water generation for district heating
— preheating combustion air in the ignition hood of the sinter plant
— preheating the sinter raw mix
— use of the sinter cooler gases in a waste gas recirculation system.
Applicability
At some plants, the existing configuration may make costs of heat recovery from the sinter waste gases or sinter cooler
waste gas very high.
The recovery of heat from the waste gases by means of a heat exchanger would lead to unacceptable condensation and
corrosion problems.

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EN
8.3.2012 Official
Journal
of
the
European
Union L
70/83
1.3. BAT Conclusions For Pelletisation Plants
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in this section can be applied to all pelletisation plants.
Air emissions
33. BAT
is
to
reduce
the
dust
emissions
in
the
waste
gases
from
— the raw materials pre-treatment, drying, grinding, wetting, mixing and the balling;
— from the induration strand; and
— from the pellet handling and screening
by using one or a combination of the following techniques:
I. an electrostatic precipitator
II. a bag filter
III. a wet scrubber
The BAT-associated emission level for dust is <
20
mg/Nm 3 for the crushing, grinding and drying and
< 10 – 15 mg/Nm 3 for all other process steps or in cases where all waste gases are treated together, all determined as
daily mean values.
34. BAT
is
to
reduce
the
sulphur
oxides
(SO X ), hydrogen chloride (HCl) and hydrogen fluoride (HF) emissions from the
induration strand waste gas by using one of the following techniques:
I. a wet scrubber
II. semi-dry absorption with a subsequent dedusting system
The BAT-associated emission levels, determined as daily mean values, for these compounds are:
— sulphur oxides (SO X ), expressed as sulphur dioxide (SO 2 ) <
30
–
50
mg/Nm 3
— hydrogen fluoride (HF)
< 1 – 3 mg/Nm 3
— hydrogen chloride (HCl)
< 1 – 3 mg/Nm 3 .
35. BAT
is
to
reduce
NO X emissions from the drying and grinding section and induration strand waste gases by
applying process-integrated techniques.
Description
Plant design through tailor-made solutions should be optimised for low nitrogen oxides (NO X ) emissions from all firing
sections. The reduction of the formation of thermal NO X can be achieved by lowering the (peak) temperature in the
burners and reducing the excess oxygen in the combustion air. Additionally, lower NO X emissions can be achieved by a
combination of low energy use and low nitrogen content in the fuel (coal and oil).
36. BAT
for
existing
plants
is
to
reduce
NO X emissions from the drying and grinding section and induration strand
waste gases by applying one of the following techniques:
I. selective catalytic reduction (SCR) as an end-of-pipe technique
II. any other technique with a NO X reduction efficiency of at least 80 %.
Applicability
For existing plants, both straight grate and grate kiln systems, it is difficult to obtain the operating conditions necessary to
suit an SCR reactor. Due to high costs, these end-of-pipe techniques should only be considered in circumstances where
environmental quality standards are otherwise not likely to be met.

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L 70/84
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Official Journal of the European Union
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37. BAT
for
new
plants
is
to
reduce
NO X emissions from the drying and grinding section and induration strand waste
gases by applying selective catalytic reduction (SCR) as an end-of-pipe technique.
Water and waste water
38. BAT for pelletisation plants is to minimise the water consumption and discharge of scrubbing, wet rinsing and
cooling water and reuse it as much as possible.
39. BAT for pelletisation plants is to treat the effluent water prior to discharge by using a combination of the
following techniques:
I. neutralisation
II. flocculation
III. sedimentation
IV. sand filtration
V. heavy metal precipitation.
The BAT-associated emission levels, based on a qualified random sample or a 24-hour composite sample, are:
— suspended solids <
50
mg/l
— chemical oxygen demand (COD ( 1 )) <
160
mg/l
— Kjeldahl nitrogen <
45
mg/l
— heavy metals <
0,55
mg/l
(sum of arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), mercury (Hg), nickel (Ni), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn)).
Production residues
40. BAT
is
to
prevent
waste
generation
from
pelletisation
plants
by
effective
on-site
recycling
or
the
reuse
of
residues
(i.e. undersized green and heat-treated pellets)
BAT is to manage in a controlled manner pellet plant process residues, i.e. sludge from waste water treatment, which can
neither be avoided nor recycled.
Energy
41. BAT
is
to
reduce/minimise
thermal
energy
consumption
in
pelletisation
plants
by
using
one
or
a
combination
of
the following techniques:
I. process integrated reuse of sensible heat as far as possible from the different sections of the induration strand
II. using surplus waste heat for internal or external heating networks if there is demand from a third party.
( 1 ) In some cases, TOC is measured instead of COD (in order to avoid HgCl 2 used in the analysis for COD). The correlation between COD
and TOC should be elaborated for each pelletisation plant case by case. The COD/TOC ratio may vary approximately between two and
four.

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Description
Hot air from the primary cooling section can be used as secondary combustion air in the firing section. In turn, the heat
from the firing section can be used in the drying section of the induration strand. Heat from the secondary cooling
section can also be used in the drying section.
Excess heat from the cooling section can be used in the drying chambers of the drying and grinding unit. The hot air is
transported through an insulated pipeline called a ‘hot air recirculation duct’.
Applicability
Recovery of sensible heat is a process integrated part of pelletisation plants. The ‘hot air recirculation duct’ can be applied
at existing plants with a comparable design and a sufficient supply of sensible heat.
The cooperation and agreement of a third party may not be within the control of the operator, and therefore may not be
within the scope of the permit.
1.4. BAT Conclusions For Coke Oven Plants
Unless otherwise stated, the BAT conclusions presented in this section can be applied to all coke oven plants.
Air emissions
42. BAT
for
coal
grinding
plants
(coal
preparation
including
crushing,
grinding,
pulverising
and
screening)
is
to
prevent or reduce dust emissions by using one or a combination of the following techniques:
I. building and/or device enclosure (crusher, pulveriser, sieves) and
II. efficient extraction and use of a subsequent dry dedusting systems.
The BAT-associated emission level for dust is < 10 – 20 mg/Nm 3 , as the average over the sampling period (discontinuous
measurement, spot samples for at least half an hour).
43. BAT
for
storage
and
handling
of
pulverised
coal
is
to
prevent
or
reduce
diffuse
dust
emissions
by
using
one
or
a
combination of the following techniques:
I. storing pulverised materials in bunkers and warehouses
II. using closed or enclosed conveyors
III. minimising the drop heights depending on the plant size and construction
IV. reducing emissions from charging of the coal tower and the charging car
V. using efficient extraction and subsequent dedusting.
When using BAT V, the BAT-associated emission level for dust is < 10 – 20 mg/Nm 3 , as the average over the sampling
period (discontinuous measurement, spot samples for at least half an hour).
44. BAT
is
to
charge
coke
oven
chambers
with
emission-reduced
charging
systems.
Description
From an integrated point of view, ‘smokeless’ charging or sequential charging with double ascension pipes or jumper
pipes are the preferred types, because all gases and dust are treated as part of the coke oven gas treatment.
If, however, the gases are extracted and treated outside the coke oven, charging with a land-based treatment of the
extracted gases is the preferred method. Treatment should consist of an efficient extraction of the emissions with
subsequent combustion to reduce organic compounds and the use of a bag filter to reduce particulates.
The BAT-associated emission level for dust from coal charging systems with land-based treatment of extracted gases is
< 5 g/t coke equivalent to < 50 mg/Nm 3 , as the average over the sampling period (discontinuous measurement, spot
samples for at least half an hour).
The duration associated with BAT of visible emissions from charging is < 30 seconds per charge as a monthly average
using a monitoring method described in BAT 46.

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45. BAT for coking is to extract the coke oven gas (COG) during coking as much as possible.
46. BAT for coke plants is to reduce the emissions through achieving continuous undisrupted coke production by
using the following techniques:
I. extensive maintenance of oven chambers, oven doors and frame seals, ascension pipes, charging holes and other
equipment (a systematic programme should be carried out by specially-trained detection and maintenance personnel)
II. avoiding strong temperature fluctuations
III. comprehensive observation and monitoring of the coke oven
IV. cleaning of doors, frame seals, charging holes, lids and ascension pipes after handling (applicable at new and, in
some cases, existing plants)
V. maintaining a free gas-flow in the coke ovens
VI. adequate pressure regulation during coking and application of spring-loaded flexible sealing doors or knife-edged
doors (in cases of ovens ≤ 5 m high and in good working order)
VII. using water-sealed ascension pipes to reduce visible emissions from the whole apparatus which provides a passage
from the coke oven battery to the collecting main, gooseneck and stationary jumper pipes
VIII. luting charging hole lids with a clay suspension (or other suitable sealing material), to reduce visible emissions from
all holes
IX. ensuring complete coking (avoiding green coke pushes) by application of adequate techniques
X. installing larger coke oven chambers (applicable to new plants or in some cases of a complete replacement of the
plant on the old foundations)
XI. where possible, using variable pressure regulation to oven chambers during coking (applicable to new plants and can
be an option for existing plants; the possibility of installing this technique in existing plants should be assessed
carefully and is subject to the individual situation of every plant).
The percentage of visible emissions from all doors associated with BAT is < 5 – 10 %.
The percentage of visible emissions for all source types associated with BAT VII and BAT VIII is < 1 %.
The percentages are related to the frequency of any leaks compared to the total number of doors, ascension pipes or
charging hole lids as a monthly average using a monitoring method as described below.
For the estimation of diffuse emissions from coke ovens the following methods are in use:
— the EPA 303 method
— the DMT (Deutsche Montan Technologie GmbH) methodology
— the methodology developed by BCRA (British Carbonisation Research Association).
— the methodology applied in the Netherlands, based on counting visible leaks of the ascension pipes and charging
holes, while excluding visible emissions due to normal operations (coal charging, coke pushing).
47. BAT for the gas treatment plant is to minimise fugitive gaseous emissions by using the following techniques:
I. minimising the number of flanges by welding piping connections wherever possible
II. using appropriate sealings for flanges and valves
III. using gas-tight pumps (e.g. magnetic pumps)

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IV. avoiding emissions from pressure valves in storage tanks by:
— connecting the valve outlet to the coke oven gas (COG) collecting main or
— collecting the gases and subsequent combustion.
Applicability
The techniques can be applied to both new and existing plants. In new plants, a gas tight design might be easier to
achieve than in existing plants.
48. BAT is to reduce the sulphur content of the coke oven gas (COG) by using one of the following techniques:
I. desulphurisation by absorption systems
II. wet oxidative desulphurisation.
The residual hydrogen sulphide (H 2 S) concentrations associated with BAT, determined as daily mean averages, are < 300 –
1 000 mg/Nm 3 in the case of using BAT I (the higher values being associated with higher ambient temperature and the
lower values being associated with lower ambient temperature) and < 10 mg/Nm 3 in the case of using BAT II.
49. BAT for the coke oven underfiring is to reduce the emissions by using the following techniques:
I. preventing leakage between the oven chamber and the heating chamber by means of regular coke oven operation
II. repairing leakage between the oven chamber and the heating chamber (only applicable to existing plants)
III. incorporating low-nitrogen oxides (NO X ) techniques in the construction of new batteries, such as staged combustion
and the use of thinner bricks and refractory with a better thermal conductivity (only applicable to new plants)
IV. using desulphurised coke oven gas (COG) process gases.
The BAT-associated emission levels, determined as daily mean values and relating to an oxygen content of 5 % are:
— sulphur oxides (SO X ), expressed as sulphur dioxide (SO 2 ) < 200 – 500 mg/Nm 3
— dust < 1 – 20 mg/Nm 3 ( 1 )
— nitrogen oxides (NO X ), expressed as nitrogen dioxide (NO 2 ) < 350 – 500 mg/Nm 3 for new or substantially revamped
plants (less than 10 years old) and 500 – 650 mg/Nm 3 for older plants with well maintained batteries and incor
porated low- nitrogen oxides (NO X ) techniques.
50. BAT
for
coke
pushing
is
to
reduce
dust
emissions
by
using
the
following
techniques:
I. extraction by means of an integrated coke transfer machine equipped with a hood
II. using land-based extraction gas treatment with a bag filter or other abatement systems
III. using a one point or a mobile quenching car.
The BAT-associated emission level for dust from coke pushing is < 10 mg/Nm 3 in the case of bag filters and of
< 20 mg/Nm 3 in other cases, determined as the average over the sampling period (discontinuous measurement, spot
samples for at least half an hour).
Applicability
At existing plants, lack of space may constrain the applicability.
( 1 ) The lower end of the range has been defined based on the performance of one specific plant achieved under real operating conditions
by the BAT obtaining the best environmental performance.

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51. BAT
for
coke
quenching
is
to
reduce
dust
emissions
by
using
one
of
the
following
techniques:
I. using coke dry quenching (CDQ) with the recovery of sensible heat and the removal of dust from charging, handling
and screening operations by means of a bag filter
II. using emission-minimised conventional wet quenching
III. using coke stabilisation quenching (CSQ).
The BAT-associated emission levels for dust, determined as the average over the sampling period, are:
— < 20 mg/Nm 3 in case of coke dry quenching
— < 25 g/t coke in case of emission minimised conventional wet quenching ( 1 )
— < 10 g/t coke in case of coke stabilisation quenching ( 2 ).
Description of BAT I
For the continuous operation of coke dry quenching plants, there are two options. In one case, the coke dry quenching
unit comprises two to up to four chambers. One unit is always on stand by. Hence no wet quenching is necessary but the
coke dry quenching unit needs an excess capacity against the coke oven plant with high costs. In the other case, an
additional wet quenching system is necessary.
In case of modifying a wet quenching plant to a dry quenching plant, the existing wet quenching system can be retained
for this purpose. Such a coke dry quenching unit has no excess processing capacity against the coke oven plant.
Applicability of BAT II
Existing quenching towers can be equipped with emissions reduction baffles. A minimum tower height of at least 30 m is
necessary in order to ensure sufficient draught conditions.
Applicability of BAT III
As the system is larger than that necessary for conventional quenching, lack of space at the plant may be a constraint.
52. BAT for coke grading and handling is to prevent or reduce dust emissions by using the following techniques in
combination:
I. use of building or device enclosures
II. efficient extraction and subsequent dry dedusting.
The BAT-associated emission level for dust is < 10 mg/Nm 3 , determined as the average over the sampling period (dis
continuous measurement, spot samples for at least half an hour).
Water and waste water
53. BAT is to minimise and reuse quenching water as much as possible.
54. BAT is to avoid the reuse of process water with a significant organic load (like raw coke oven waste water, waste
water with a high content of hydrocarbons, etc.) as quenching water.
55. BAT is to pretreat waste water from the coking process and coke oven gas (COG) cleaning prior to discharge to a
waste water treatment plant by using one or a combination of the following techniques:
I. using efficient tar and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) removal by using flocculation and subsequent flotation,
sedimentation and filtration individually or in combination
II. using efficient ammonia stripping by using alkaline and steam.
( 1 ) This level is based on the use of the non-isokinetic Mohrhauer method (former VDI 2303)
( 2 ) This level is based on the use of an isokinetic sampling method according to VDI 2066

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56. BAT for pretreated waste water from the coking process and coke oven gas (COG) cleaning is to use biological
waste water treatment with integrated denitrification/nitrification stages.
The BAT-associated emission levels, based on a qualified random sample or a 24-hour composite sample and referring
only to single coke oven water treatment plants, are:
— chemical oxygen demand (COD ( 1 )) <
220
mg/l
— biological oxygen demand for 5 days (BOD 5 ) <
20
mg/l
— sulphides, easily released ( 2 ) <
0,1
mg/l
— thiocyanate (SCN - ) <
4
mg/l
— cyanide (CN - ), easily released ( 3 ) <
0,1
mg/l
— polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH)
< 0,05 mg/l
(sum of Fluoranthene, Benzo[b]fluoranthene,
Benzo[k]fluoranthene, Benzo[a]pyrene,
Indeno[1,2,3-cd]pyrene and Benzo[g,h,i]perylene)
— phenols <
0,5
mg/l
— sum of ammonia-nitrogen (NH +
4 -N),
< 15 – 50 mg/l.
nitrate-nitrogen (NO -
-
3 -N) and nitrite-nitrogen (NO 2 -N)
Regarding the sum of ammonia-nitrogen (NH +
-
-
4 -N), nitrate-nitrogen (NO 3 -N) and nitrite-nitrogen (NO 2 -N), values of
< 35 mg/l are usually associated with the application of advanced biological waste water treatment plants with predeni
trification/nitrification and post-denitrification.
Production residues
57.
BAT is to recycle production residues such as tar from the coal water and still effluent, and surplus activated sludge
from the waste water treatment plant back to the coal feed of the coke oven plant.
Energy
58. BAT is to use the extracted coke oven gas (COG) as a