The Enduring Legacy of the Landi bench

Since its debut in 1939, the Landi bench has been an integral part of Swiss public spaces, admired for its elegant design, robustness, and cultural significance. Commissioned initially for the 1939 Swiss National Exhibition (Landi), the bench’s simple yet functional form has made it a symbol of Swiss urban heritage. Found in parks, town squares, and transit stops nationwide, it serves both practical and aesthetic roles in Swiss cities.

Embracing Sustainability through XCarb Steel

In a bold effort to marry tradition with sustainability, Burri Public Elements embarked on a project to manufacture the Landi bench from XCarb steel, a product of ArcelorMittal Tubular Products Altensteig’s decarbonized steelmaking processes. Launched in summer 2024, the pilot run tests the feasibility of replacing conventional steel with this low-emission alternative, signaling a crucial milestone in green urban infrastructure development.

The Technology Behind XCarb Steel

XCarb steel is manufactured through innovative methods, including hydrogen-based direct reduction and electric arc furnace processes fueled by renewable energy. These technologies reduce CO₂ emissions by up to 70% compared to traditional blast furnace methods. The steel’s production embodies a major shift in metallurgy, enabling industries to significantly lower their carbon footprints without compromising material strength or durability.

Overcoming Technical Challenges with Local Expertise

Collaborating closely with local processor Kindlmann, Burri was able to evaluate the new steel’s behavior in typical manufacturing steps such as bending, welding, and coating. Stephan Bachmann, Burri partner, highlighted the smooth adaptation of XCarb steel to existing production techniques, saying, “The steel could be bent, welded, and coated without any problems.” This technical compatibility ensures a seamless transition for manufacturers and preserves the quality and longevity of the Landi bench.

Key Takeaways:

• The historic Landi bench is now produced using ArcelorMittal’s low-CO₂ XCarb steel, merging tradition with innovation.

• Successful technical trials confirm XCarb steel’s suitability for bending, welding, and coating in public infrastructure manufacturing.

• This initiative strengthens local economies, reduces emissions, and supports Switzerland’s ambitious climate targets for 2030 and 2050.