North American Stainless (NAS), a leading producer of stainless steel and specialty alloys based in Ghent, Kentucky, has placed an order with Kocks for a reducing & sizing block 370++/6 in its latest 5.0 design. The investment is part of NAS’s major modernization program aimed at boosting production flexibility, enhancing product quality, and improving operational efficiency.
The new RSB 370++/6 will be installed as a finishing block after 19 H/V stands in the existing rolling mill, enabling NAS to roll straight and coiled SBQ bars in round and hexagonal dimensions, as well as feeders for the wire rod line. With a total mill capacity of around 200,000 tons annually, the company will expand its product portfolio to include round bars in stainless and high-performance alloys from 12.7 to 103.6 mm, special three-rib rebar from 12.7 to 44.5 mm, and hexagon bars from 12.7 to 76.2 mm.
The scope of supply also covers Kocks Blue Box water cooling lines, a Microstructure Simulator for thermomechanical rolling, and the 4D EAGLE S system with Size Control and remote stand adjustments for precise closed-loop quality control. Additional equipment includes Bamicon Octopus software and hardware for roll shop processes, shears, and full electrical and automation systems.
With its wide production capabilities, ease of operation, and proven one-pass family rolling concept, the RSB 370++/6 will enable NAS to achieve tighter tolerances, superior surface quality, and faster changeovers. The upgrade is expected to significantly improve productivity and operational excellence while offering the flexibility to meet customer and market requirements.
Commissioning is scheduled for the third quarter of 2026.
