BlueScope Steel Set to Restart Port Kembla No. 6 Blast Furnace
Steel News | 2026-10-05 06:45:25
The upgraded furnace is expected to ensure a continuous supply of iron ore, boosting production of lower-emission steel from the plant.
By Paul Ploumis
SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): BlueScope Steel Limited is approaching a key milestone at its Port Kembla Steelworks, with the No. 6 Blast Furnace reline set to start up in late 2026.
The reline is among the company’s major capital investment projects and is designed to preserve ironmaking capacity at the Australian steelmaking site. The upgraded furnace is expected to ensure a continuous supply of iron ore, boosting production of lower-emission steel from the plant.
The company has retained operational flexibility during the transition, with the existing No.5 Blast Furnace supporting production while the relined No.6 unit is commissioned. This arrangement could help BlueScope manage the transition without unnecessarily disrupting steelmaking operations.
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The project is part of a wider investment program covering upgrades across Port Kembla and other manufacturing facilities. These initiatives are intended to strengthen production capabilities and support downstream steel products serving construction and industrial markets.
Apart from the furnace upgrade, BlueScope is examining potential options involving direct reduced iron and electric smelting technology, so as to support lower-carbon ironmaking across its various facilities.
As the No.6 Blast Furnace project moves from construction toward commissioning, the company will now focus on execution and cost control measures.
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What is the most important benefit of BlueScope’s No. 6 Blast Furnace reline?
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is BlueScope’s No. 6 Blast Furnace expected to restart?
BlueScope Steel expects the relined No. 6 Blast Furnace at Port Kembla Steelworks to start up in late 2026. The project is a significant capital investment aimed at maintaining the site’s long-term ironmaking capability.
- Why is BlueScope relining the No. 6 Blast Furnace?
The reline is designed to preserve ironmaking capacity and ensure a continuous supply of iron for the Port Kembla steelmaking operation. It is also expected to support the production of lower-emission steel from the facility.
- How will BlueScope maintain production during the furnace transition?
The company plans to continue operating the existing No. 5 Blast Furnace while the relined No. 6 unit is commissioned. Maintaining No. 5 operations provides flexibility and could reduce disruptions to steelmaking during the transition.
