ArcelorMittal Blast Furnace B Restart Efforts in Gijón Underway

ArcelorMittal Initiates New Gijón Blast Furnace B Startup

ArcelorMittal is making a renewed effort to restart blast furnace B at its Gijón plant in Spain. The furnace has remained idle since last summer due to scheduled maintenance. The company is now deploying advanced oxypropane technology to ignite the unit, signaling a critical step toward resuming full steel production.

Previous restart attempts in late September failed, prompting engineers to adopt a more complex technological approach. The process involves drilling into the furnace floor to remove solidified cast iron, using two burners in separate tuyeres simultaneously. Company representatives report that results could be visible within a few days.

Industry analysts indicate that, if successful, production at blast furnace B could stabilize between late January and early February. The first iron smelting is expected by the end of December, which would significantly improve output after several months of inactivity.

Technological Challenges and Operational Outlook for Blast Furnace B

Restarting blast furnace B involves high operational risk. Removing solidified iron accelerates equipment wear and requires precise handling. ArcelorMittal has ruled out a full cooling and cleaning procedure, citing high costs and extended downtime of at least three months.

Meanwhile, the company continues its modernization efforts at other sites. The coating line at its Avilés steel plant in Asturias remains temporarily shut for maintenance until December 26. These upgrades aim to enhance productivity and improve product quality, aligning with ArcelorMittal’s broader European operational strategy.

Despite the technical hurdles, labor representatives remain cautiously optimistic about the furnace’s restart. Production stabilization would support both local employment and Spain’s steel supply chain in early 2026.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

ArcelorMittal’s approach highlights the growing importance of advanced furnace technologies in the global steel industry. Using oxypropane ignition reduces extended downtime risks but raises equipment strain concerns. Market observers should monitor Gijón’s blast furnace B closely, as successful restart could influence steel prices and regional supply dynamics. The company’s ability to balance technology, cost, and productivity will be a key signal for European steel trends.