InfraBuild to increase sustainable steel capacity

Manufacturer of steel long products InfraBuild has announced it is increasing steelmaking capacity at its Melbourne manufacturing facilities as it seeks to maximise the use of what are currently Australia’s only steel-producing electric arc furnaces (EAFs).

InfraBuild says its scrap-based EAF technology emits approximately 70% lower CO₂ emissions per tonne of steel than traditional blast furnace methods. As part of an investment program at the Laverton Melt Shop, InfraBuild has taken delivery of two new EAF bowls, supporting its objective of increasing site production by 25% to one million tonnes per annum (mtpa).

In Sydney, InfraBuild will lift capacity to 680,000 tonnes per annum (tpa) this year and has commenced studies, including identifying any required regulatory approvals, on the optimal path to reach 1 mtpa.

InfraBuild CEO Francisco Irazusta said the new equipment prepares Laverton for the next stage of growth.

“Investing in our manufacturing assets is how we continue to grow, improve efficiency and meet increasing demand for more sustainable steel,” he said. “These new EAF bowls are one of the critical upgrades that will help Laverton deliver on its future 1 mtpa production target.”

The two bowls will be in operation from October 2025, enabling a larger tap mass and supporting increased output. The bowls are part of a rotation system in which one is re-lined offline and exchanged with the operating bowl approximately every six weeks.

“Our ability to produce more sustainable steel means we are here ready to help our customers and the construction industry transform so we have a more sustainable construction industry,” Irazusta added.

InfraBuild’s circular steel-making model at the Victorian and New South Wales sites uses EAF technology to recycle scrap metal and produce steel for Australian infrastructure and construction projects and other sectors.

Image caption: Sydney steel mill EAF. Credit: InfraBuild