El Marakby Steel, an Egyptian manufacturer of rebar and wire rods, has inked a contract with SMS group to upgrade the SMS minimill at its 6th of October site, aiming to further raise its capacity and reduce operating costs.

After an assessment in early 2023 that increased annual production by 10%, the modernization project carried out in 2024 focuses on enhancing the electric arc furnace, casting plant, and rolling mill. Major upgrades include a 55 MVA transformer, CONSO systems for lime and carbon injection, the CONDOOR® automatic slag door, and CONVEX® Mold Tube technology for improved efficiency and product quality.

A new square billet cross-section of 150 mm was introduced in the continuous casting plant, raising the minimill’s production capacity from 400,000 to 460,000 tons of rebar and wire rod per year. This expansion strengthens El Marakby Steel’s market-leading position and partnership with SMS group.