AK Steel Investing in Stainless Tube Operation

The decision to invest in new equipment follows an EPA ruling that goes into effect Jan. 1, 2007 that is designed to lower particulate matter and hydrocarbon emissions from heavy duty diesel engines.

AK Steel will invest about $8.5 million at its wholly-owned subsidiary, AK Tube LLC, to produce large diameter stainless tubing to help heavy truck manufacturers meet new standards for diesel emissions. AK Steel said the capital investment would include a resistance- weld tube mill, and associated equipment, capable of producing large-diameter stainless tubing to meet these new requirements.

 

"AK Tube and AK Steel are already leaders in vehicle exhaust component steel technology," said James Wainscott, president and CEO of AK Steel. "This new capital investment further enhances our industry-leading technology by helping us meet new market requirements for heavy duty truck exhaust components."

 

Construction of the new tubing mill will begin in the near future, with completion estimated by mid-2006.