Marcegaglia has commissioned Primetals Technologies to undertake a comprehensive modernization of its spout-type electric arc furnace (EAF) and dedusting system at the Sheffield plant. This upgrade is part of Marcegaglia’s commitment to improving efficiency and environmental performance at its Sheffield site, a leading producer of green steel in the U.K. compared to blast furnace-based producers.
The modernization will enhance both the efficiency and ecological compatibility of the plant. To minimize downtime, larger furnace components will be preassembled, with the project slated for completion by mid-2026. The upgraded EAF is expected to boost plant productivity to over 500,000 tons per year of stainless steel products, which will be further processed within the Marcegaglia Group.
The project involves a complete rebuild of the existing furnace with a larger diameter and volume to facilitate scrap charging and reduce delays, optimizing the melting process. The new furnace, with a diameter of 7.1 meters, will maximize the use of existing transformer power and include shell exchange practices to minimize downtime. Additionally, operations will be accelerated with an upgraded hydraulic unit and a redesigned furnace platform.
The revamp will also feature a dedicated burner system and a lime-dolo injection system to enhance the production process. The dedusting system will be upgraded with new water-cooled ducts and a drop-out box, improving furnace pressure control and the extraction of increased thermal power from fumes.
Marcegaglia Group, headquartered in Gazoldo degli Ippoliti, Italy, operates 36 plants across four continents with a total production capacity of 6.5 mln tons of carbon and special steels. In 2023, Marcegaglia acquired Outokumpu’s stainless steel long product division, including the Sheffield meltshop, which produces stainless steel billets, blooms, and slabs.
