Duisburg, March 26, 2012 – ArcelorMittal has invested 95 million euros in a new wire rod mill at its Duisburg location. This state-of-the-art rolling mill will embody a milestone in the production of wire steel products worldwide.
The plant, with an annual capacity of 690,000 tons, enables significant quality improvements and a broader range of wire products at ArcelorMittal Duisburg. Thanks to the innovative design of the rolling mill and the space reserves for future expansion, new steels can be processed for the automotive industry and for applications in the fields of renewable energy and offshore, for locking technology and mechanical engineering. In addition, high-strength and ultra-high-strength steels can be added to the product range in the new plant because, thanks to state-of-the-art technology, thermomechanical rolling processes can be used.
“Due to the thermomechanical process and improved product tolerances, we not only offer our customers opportunities to reduce processing costs in a highly competitive environment, but we will also increase our flexibility and roll more products with high added value. These include alloyed spring steels, bearing steels and cold heading grades for wire products. With this plant, we are among the top ranked manufacturers of wire rod products worldwide,” explains Bernd Webersinke, CEO of ArcelorMittal Duisburg.
The new wire rod mill was built in Duisburg-Ruhrort right next to the billet mill and the steel mill, which means an improved logistical constellation (steel mill and rolling mill at the same location) is realized. The commissioning of the new rolling mill began in mid-March, and regular production is scheduled to ramp up in June. By the end of 2012, the new plant in Ruhrort will completely replace the Hochfeld wire rod mill.
“The investment in our factory facilities in Duisburg demonstrates our strong commitment to this location and the city. We are convinced that Germany, as a sustainable location, is suitable for competitive steel production with highly innovative products. The new wire rod mill will make a significant contribution to maintaining and expanding our leading market position,” adds Nico Reuter, Vice President Long Steel Europe at ArcelorMittal.