Business leaders gather for UK Steel Innovation Day 2018.

London’s Science Museum was the venue for the UK Steel Innovation Day 2018, where a number of sector representatives gathered to demonstrate the crucial role a modern and vibrant steel industry has to play in society.

Showcasing the high level of technical innovation taking place in the steel industry, the dynamic people driving the sector forward, and the opportunities the sector represents throughout the supply chain, the event was an opportunity to hear the leading innovators from the sector discuss how R&D can unlock the potential for a sustainable steel industry.

Dr David Egner, British Steel’s Strategy Implementation Manager said: “Steel is a material that sits at the very heart of society so it’s imperative we continue to innovate. However, there has to be substance to our innovation. We must demonstrate the new products we manufacture add value for customers and society.

“For example, British Steel has developed a zinc coated rail that has an extended lifespan in corrosive environments. This reduces the need for timely and costly track repairs – great benefits for rail operators, freight companies and rail passengers.

“At British Steel, we’re constantly striving to provide solutions to the challenges our customers face and this must be at the core of innovation.”

Among the other companies represented at the event were Heathrow, Siemens and Primetals Technologies while Business Minister for Steel, Richard Harrington MP, also addressed the audience.

UK Steel Chairman Jon Bolton gave the closing address, stating the level of innovation and talent within the sector means “an exciting future awaits the steel industry, providing we have the recognition and support that we and the communities we support require.”