Vinton Steel and Tenova collaborate on sustainable steel production in Texas

Vinton Steel LLC, the U.S. subsidiary of Kyoei Steel, has announced a partnership with Tenova, a global provider of sustainable technologies for the metals industry, to construct a new melt shop at Vinton Steel’s facility in El Paso, Texas. The project will incorporate Tenova’s Green City Mill Flex platform, which aims to double the facility’s steel production capacity while reducing environmental impact.

The modernization project is set to boost Vinton Steel’s annual production capacity to 400,000 tons using advanced technologies that focus on reducing emissions, energy consumption, and operational costs. The new facility is expected to begin construction in the summer of 2025, with a projected startup in the first quarter of 2027.

Executives from Vinton Steel and Tenova gathered in Osaka, Japan, on February 3, 2025, to mark the signing of the contract. The initiative is a significant step in Kyoei Steel’s strategy to expand its footprint in the North American market.

“This project is a major milestone for Kyoei Steel Group’s North American strategy,” said Masahiro Kitada, Chairman of Vinton Steel LLC. “By integrating sustainable steelmaking technologies, we are enhancing our U.S. market presence while contributing to local economic growth in the West Texas region.”

The Green City Mill Flex platform integrates advanced technologies, including the third-generation Consteel® Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) and features continuous casting and rolling capabilities in collaboration with Pomini Long Rolling Mills. The platform emphasizes a circular economy model by utilizing the local steel scrap recycling supply chain to minimize environmental impacts.

Francesco Memoli, President & CEO of Tenova Inc., stated, “The Green City Mill Flex platform enhances efficiency and flexibility, representing a modern approach to sustainable steel production. This project exemplifies how regional steelmakers can adopt green technologies to meet evolving market demands.”

Tenova will supply comprehensive technology solutions, including a 45-ton Consteel® EAF with continuous scrap preheating, an in-line Ladle Metallurgy Furnace, a multi-strand Continuous Casting Machine, and a fully automated Material Handling System. Additional features will include an advanced Fume Treatment Plant, a zero-water-consumption Water Treatment Plant, and a modernized Electrical Distribution System, focusing on efficiency and sustainability.

The construction phase will be managed by Techint Engineering & Construction (Techint E&C), a subsidiary of Tenova’s parent company, the Techint Group. Techint E&C will oversee the project’s execution under an EPCM contract, ensuring adherence to quality and safety standards.

Source and Photo: Tenova