ArcelorMittal Launches New Electric Arc Furnace at Belval Plant

ArcelorMittal Launches New Electric Arc Furnace to Boost Steel Capacity

ArcelorMittal will soon begin hot testing of a new electric arc furnace (EAF) at its Belval plant in Luxembourg.
The unit is part of the SteelUp! modernization project and will reach full design capacity in early January.
This upgrade aims to enhance semi-finished product supply to the Rodange long product mill.

The Belval site has received a modern EAF, vacuum degassing unit, and upgraded continuous casting line.
These improvements will increase steel smelting capacity by nearly 15% while improving energy efficiency.
Replacing the old furnace ensures the plant becomes fully self-sufficient in steel production.

Meanwhile, the dismantling of the previous EAF, in operation since 1997, concluded in mid-October.
This transition allows ArcelorMittal to fully meet Luxembourg’s demand for finished steel products.
The modern furnace will also improve product quality by reducing dissolved gases through vacuum degassing.

Energy Efficiency and Productivity Gains at Belval

The SteelUp! project targets significant energy and productivity gains.
ArcelorMittal expects a 15% reduction in energy consumption alongside a similar productivity increase in heavy sections.
This aligns with the company’s sustainability and operational efficiency goals across Europe.

In addition, improved steel quality will support long-term competitiveness for ArcelorMittal Long Products Luxembourg.
The upgraded facility demonstrates the company’s commitment to modernizing European steel operations.
Notably, the EAF will allow Luxembourg production to reduce reliance on external semi-finished steel supplies.

SuperMetalPrice Commentary:

ArcelorMittal’s new EAF at Belval underscores the shift toward energy-efficient steel production in Europe.
The modernization will enhance both capacity and quality, strengthening the company’s regional position.
As a result, Luxembourg may achieve full domestic steel self-sufficiency, reducing reliance on imports.
We expect these investments to set benchmarks for other European steel plants pursuing efficiency and sustainability.