Stainless steel is vital to Pi Green Innovations’ technologies, enhancing durability, sustainability, and product lifecycle in harsh environments. Yogendra Kanitkar shares that with the net zero machine of Pi Green Innovations, the company is contributing to the decarbonization of the steel industry and advancing sustainable solutions for a greener future. Read on to know more.

Spokesperson: Yogendra Kanitnar, VP – Research & Development, Pi Green Innovations

How does stainless steel contribute to the durability and efficiency of your net zero machines and filterless technologies?

Stainless steel plays a critical role in enhancing the durability and performance of our technologies. For example, we use SS304 and SS316L grades specifically for their corrosion resistance and ability to withstand high-temperature environments. These materials are not only relevant to our carbon cutter but also essential for our net zero machines. The chemical processes in the net zero machine often involve alkaline substances, requiring robust engineering materials like stainless steel. This ensures our systems perform efficiently and remain durable in extreme conditions.

Why are SS304 and SS316L grades preferred for your systems?

These grades are preferred because of their exceptional properties, such as resistance to fatigue and corrosion. Compared to mild steel, stainless steel offers superior adaptability to thermal expansion and contraction, which is crucial when engines ramp up and cool down frequently. Mild steel tends to fail under such conditions due to fatigue, eventually cracking. On the other hand, stainless steel remains stable, ensuring longevity and reliability. For our net zero machines, stainless steel’s slower corrosion rate makes it a better material choice, particularly in highly corrosive environments.

Since Pi Green Innovations is a sustainable company, how does stainless steel ensure your products align with sustainability goals?

Stainless steel significantly contributes to the sustainability of our products by extending their lifecycle and ensuring repairability. For instance, in coastal and humid environments like Surat or the Maldives, where salinity in the air accelerates corrosion, stainless steel offers unparalleled durability. Using stainless steel minimizes the need for frequent replacements, reducing waste and the associated carbon emissions. This choice of material aligns perfectly with our mission to develop sustainable technologies, as it minimizes environmental impact while maximizing product longevity.

What challenges do you face when using stainless steel, or is it an easy material to work with?

Stainless steel is relatively easy to work with, both in terms of manufacturing and supply chain logistics. It is widely available in various grades and formats, especially within industrial hubs. Operations such as punching, bending, and rolling can be carried out with standard tools and machines. Additionally, vendors and processing units are readily accessible, making stainless steel an extremely convenient material for our production needs. Compared to polymers or plastics, stainless steel doesn’t require specialized machinery like dyes, which makes it even more versatile.

How do you foresee stainless steel being a part of your future innovations, and are there any ongoing R&D efforts you’d like to share?

Stainless steel will remain integral to our future innovations, especially in products like the net zero machine, where a significant portion of the architecture relies on its durability and corrosion resistance. Looking ahead, I foresee Indian stainless steel moving toward green steel production, with CO2 emissions during manufacturing reducing drastically.

In terms of R&D, while we are not directly working on electrolyzers, I see immense potential in using stainless steel for high-pressure applications like hydrogen storage vessels. These vessels require materials like SS316L for their superior resistance to corrosion and ability to withstand high pressures. We believe that stainless steel will continue to be a backbone for clean-tech advancements in industries like hydrogen storage and LNG.

How does Pi Green Innovations contribute to the net zero race within the steel manufacturing industry?

Our net zero machine is a groundbreaking innovation that captures CO2 emissions using industrial waste, making it a game-changing technology in carbon capture and utilization. This technology directly supports the steel industry’s sustainability goals by reducing its carbon footprint. We are confident that the Indian steel industry will embrace our solutions, paving the way for a more sustainable future.

Is there anything else you’d like to add about your use of stainless steel or your company’s goals?

Stainless steel is a cornerstone of our design and manufacturing strategy. For instance, we exclusively use stainless steel for our fasteners and other components to ensure longevity and reliability. Additionally, we prioritize working directly with manufacturers to maintain quality, using certifications like test certificates and certificates of conformity for every batch. As a company, we are committed to sustainability and innovation, and stainless steel plays a crucial role in achieving these objectives.