Romania-based UMB Steel has commissioned SMS group to supply Europe’s first Continuous Mill Technology (CMT 700) at its Otelu Rosu site.
The new long steel products mill will be integrated into the existing steelmaking complex and operate in a continuous endless process, improving production efficiency while reducing CO2 emissions. The project is aimed at meeting rising demand for sustainable construction materials, particularly for the UMB Group’s highway projects.
The CMT 700 will have an annual capacity of about 700,000 tons of straight bars, compact coils and wire rod. SMS will deliver the plant on a single-source basis, covering mechanical, electrical and automation systems.
By eliminating billet reheating, the mill is expected to cut CO2 emissions by up to 30pct. The plant is designed for a flexible product mix and will feature advanced caster technology and laser-based dimensional control to enhance product quality and reduce material waste.
The Otelu Rosu site is one of Romania’s oldest industrial facilities, originally established as a forge in 1796. It developed into a major metallurgical centre in the 19th century, commissioning its first rolling mill in 1842 and an open-hearth furnace in 1891. In recent decades, the plant experienced prolonged instability marked by repeated ownership changes and financial difficulties. Its outlook shifted in early 2024, when the facility was acquired by UMB Steel, paving the way for renewed investment and modernization.
