Big River Steel to expand mill

Company looks to double steelmaking capacity at its Arkansas steel mill.

Big River Steel has announced plans to expand its electric arc furnace (EAF) steel production facility in Osceola, Arkansas. The expansion will double Big River Steel’s hot-rolled steel production capacity to 3.3 million tons annually.

The company also says the expansion will facilitate its ability to produce higher grades of electrical steel, demand for which is expected to increase with continued focus on energy efficiency and the increase in hybrid and electric vehicle sales.

“Our $1.2 billion expansion will further cement Big River Steel’s position as a global leader in terms of advanced manufacturing and environmental stewardship,” says Dave Sticker, Big River CEO. “Announcing this investment less than 18 months after beginning operations is a testament to the hard work and great success of the men and women on our team.”

The expansion has begun with Germany-based engineering company SMS Group GmbH taking the lead on the project at the scrap-consuming EAF facility. Major construction activity is expected to begin later in 2018 and will take about two years.

In addition to doubling its hot-rolled steel production and enhancing its electrical steel capability, Big River says it also is considering installing “next generation” coating line focused on automotive applications. Big River says the installation would involve a steel industry partner.

The company indicates it also is looking at opportunities to supply the market with grain-oriented steel products (used in making transformers and generators), either within this expansion phase or as a future endeavor.

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