US Steel to Restart Idled Electric Arc Furnace in Fairfield Plant

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): Pittsburgh-based US Steel announced restart of construction works of modern electric arc furnace (EAF) in its Fairfield, Alabama steelmaking facility. The company had restarted the EAF construction in March 2015, but had suspended the works by December 2015, owing to unfavorable market conditions. The highly favorable market conditions, on account of Trump’s import tariffs, have led the company take the all-important decision to restart construction once again.

According to company press release, US Steel plans to invest approximately $215 million. This investment will add around 150 new full-time employees. Upon completion, the mill will have a capacity of 1.6 million tons per annum. The construction works on the EAF is expected to begin immediately, with first production expected during the latter half of 2020.

David B. Burritt, President and Chief Executive Officer noted that the investment is an important step to improve the company’s cost structure. Moreover, it will ensure long-term prospects of the company’s Tubular business. The company will continue to make further efforts to maintain its leading position as a provider of value-added tubular solutions to its customers.

Meantime, Burritt also stated that the President’s strong trade actions have led to significant improvement in market conditions. He also thanked the State of Alabama and the Jefferson County Commission for their support.

Last week, US Steel had announced its decision to restart the No.1 Electric-Weld Pipe Mill at Lone Star Tubular Operations in Lone Star, Texas.