Swiss Steel Group launches new lead-free machinable steel

The Swiss Steel Group, a pioneer in sustainable steel production, has launched a new lead-free machinable steel — 11SMn30+BX. As the steel industry undergoes a significant transformation toward sustainability, this product marks an important milestone, addressing growing environmental requirements while remaining at the forefront of industrial development.

Machinable steels, such as 11SMn30+BX, are known for their exceptional suitability for the efficient and precise manufacturing of components. These steels are easy to machine without causing excessive wear on tools, and industrial sectors such as automotive, mechanical engineering, and hydraulics, rely heavily on the quality and versatility of these steels. Traditionally, lead is added to improve the machinability of these steels, but the Swiss Steel Group is taking a new approach by replacing lead with boron, a more environmentally-friendly element.

Furthermore, the Swiss Steel Group leads the way in the steel industry with its innovative electric arc furnace (EAF) process, one of the lowest CO₂-emission steel production methods currently available. Unlike conventional blast furnaces that depend on carbon-intensive raw materials like coal and iron ore, the EAF primarily uses recycled scrap metal as its raw material which significantly reduces CO₂ emissions and offers the possibility of almost entirely eliminating the use of fossil fuels.

Climate-friendly steel production
By utilising renewable energy sources, the EAF process can further optimise the CO₂ footprint, making it one of the most climate-friendly steel production methods available. The decision to prioritise the electric arc furnace process and the ongoing development of lead-free alternatives like 11SMn30+BX highlights how the Swiss Steel Group proactively contributes to the transformation of the steel industry.

Frank Koch, CEO of the Swiss Steel Group said: “We are proud to further strengthen our leadership in sustainable steel production.” The 11SMn30+BX machinable steel delivers the usual high performance and superior machining quality — essential for producing small, precise components. Customers benefit from the product’s consistent quality, which reduces maintenance intervals and increases uptime. These advantages help lower production costs and enhance the competitiveness of customers.

Applications of 11SMn30+BX include: the automotive industry — ideal for small, precise components that require high machinability and environmental sustainability, such as engine and chassis parts; mechanical engineering — perfect for machines and tools that demand a long lifespan and high durability; and hydraulics — the steel is suitable for demanding applications that require accuracy and surface quality.

As a global leader and winner of the German Sustainability Award 2024, the Swiss Steel Group also offers all its products in CO₂-reduced green steel quality. The 11SMn30+BX represents another step toward a low-carbon steel industry and ‘showcases the company’s forward-thinking, sustainable approach’.