Sweden-based mining equipment manufacturer Epiroc has launched a partnership with steelmaker SSAB to secure fossil-free steel for use in its mining equipment as part of a broader push to cut carbon emissions.

SSAB is working to deliver fossil-free steel to the market at a commercial scale in 2026. It delivered the first steel made of hydrogen-reduced iron in 2021.

The company works with iron producer LKAB and energy company Vattenfall as part of the HYBRIT initiative to develop a value chain for fossil-free iron and steel production, replacing coking coal traditionally needed for steelmaking.

Epiroc will initially use fossil-free steel for material for a prototype underground machine produced at its facility in Örebro, Sweden. The plan is to increase the usage of fossil-free steel over time.

Martin Lindqvist, SSAB's president and chief executive officer, described the collaboration as the natural next step in the company's efforts to mitigate climate change.

"Demand for fossil-free steel is increasing, which is one of the reasons for SSAB to bring forward its green transition with the ambition to largely eliminate carbon dioxide emissions around 2030," Lindqvist said.

Helena Hedblom, Epiroc's president and chief executive officer, said the partnership would help the company support its customers and reach its climate goals.

"It is clear that our innovation agenda goes hand-in-hand with our customers' sustainability agenda," Hedblom said.

Earlier in April 2022, LKAB ordered a third Scooptram ST18 automated loader from Epiroc for its Kiruna mine.