US steel producer Hybar LLC has selected SMS group to supply a second CMT 550 continuous minimill for its steelmaking complex in Osceola, Arkansas. Installed alongside the existing mill, the project will create the world’s first twin CMT system and add 630,000 short tons per year of reinforcing bar capacity.
Groundbreaking is expected in late 2026, with start-up planned 24 months later. The new mill will share logistics and renewable power infrastructure with the existing facility, including a 105 MW solar park and 160 MWh battery storage system. Hybar expects the configuration to reduce carbon emissions by up to 35pct compared with a conventional minimill.
The CMT 550 integrates electric arc furnace steelmaking, continuous casting and rolling into a single production line. The new facility will produce rebar in diameters of 12.4-35 mm, with provision for future installation of vertical compact coiler technology for coils of up to eight tons.
The meltshop will feature an EDGE DC electric arc furnace and twin ladle furnace station, supported by SMS’ X-Pact AURA electrical system. The integrated casting and rolling process is designed to reduce energy consumption and eliminate the need for conventional fossil-fuel reheating.
The rolling mill will include 14 housing-less stands and a six-pass MEERdrive finishing block, alongside automated laser measurement and high-speed delivery systems to improve dimensional control and material yield.
SMS group will also provide lifecycle support, building on its experience with Hybar’s existing CMT 550 mill at Osceola.
Based in Osceola, Arkansas, Hybar operates a highly automated scrap-based EAF minimill. The company focuses on low-carbon steel production through advanced automation and renewable energy, including an adjacent solar and battery storage facility.