Algoma Steel reports progress on EAF installation

Algoma Steel Group Inc. says it has installed the first structural steel columns at its electric arc furnace (EAF) steelmaking facility in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, this week. 

To commemorate the project milestone, Ontario Premier Doug Ford visited the site.

Algoma describes its EAF project as “the largest industrial-scale carbon reduction project in Canada.” It is supported by the Ontario government and by the government of Canada.

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The company has partnered with Hamilton, Ontario-based Walters Group Inc. to fabricate and erect the main EAF building and ancillary structures, which include technology designed to reduce sound and emissions. Walters is using Algoma’s steel plate products in the fabrication of the heavy structural components and is working with local industrial contractor SIS Manufacturing Inc. to fabricate these key elements. On-site assembly of the building structure is targeted for completion within the year, Algoma Steel says.

“Given the significance of Algoma’s transition to Ontario’s carbon reduction goals, we were excited to celebrate this important milestone with Premier Ford today,” Algoma CEO Michael D. Garcia says in a Feb. 16 news release about the company’s progress. “We are making incredible progress on the EAF project, which remains on time and on budget, and most importantly, the team is working safely.

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“The level of excitement in the community and among our workforce is remarkable as we look to a greener future with an expected 70 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions,” Garcia continues. “ When paired with Ontario’s low-carbon power grid, we expect this transition will position Algoma as one of the leading producers of green steel in North America.”

Completion of the EAF project, which has a budget of CA$703 million, or $520 million, is on track for mid-2024, according to the company.