02/21/2025 - Japanese steelmaker Kyoei Steel Ltd. will invest more than US$229 in melting and rolling upgrades to its Vinton Steel mini-mill in Texas. 

“With the support of our parent company, Kyoei Steel Group, we are not just expanding our capacity but are also leading the charge towards sustainability with our state-of-the art new green steelmaking process. This is a testament to our dedication to both economic and environmental stewardship in the Borderplex region,” Vinton Steel chairman and Kyoei Steel America president Masahiro Kitada said in a statement. 

According to project contractor Tenova, the improvements will lift the mill's annual production capacity to 400,000 tons while significantly reducing emissions, energy consumption, and operational costs. 

As part of the project, Tenova will deploy its Green City Mill Flex concept, which pairs its latest-generation Consteel electric arc furnaces with latest generation with continuous casting and rolling capabilities developed in collaboration with Pomini Long Rolling Mills. 

The order includes a  45-ton Consteel EAF equipped with continuous scrap preheating; an in-line ladle metallurgy furnace; a multi-strand caster; and a fully automated material handling system. The project will also feature an advanced fume treatment plant with a quenching tower and pulse-jet baghouse; a zero-water-consumption water treatment plant, and a modern electrical distribution system. 

Techint Engineering & Construction will oversee construction. 

The investment, which is expected to create 180 new jobs, is being supported by the Texas state government with a US$1.5 million grant and other tax incentives. Vinton Steel produces rebar and grinding media for the mining industry.