InfraBuild is increasing steelmaking capacity at its Melbourne manufacturing facilities as part of a broader investment program aimed at delivering more sustainable steel.
The company announced that two new electric arc furnace (EAF) bowls have been delivered to its Laverton Melt Shop, supporting a 25 per cent increase in production to one million tonnes per annum (Mtpa).
InfraBuild said the new equipment forms part of its strategy to maximise the use of Australia’s only steel producing EAFs.
According to worldsteel 2023 data, the company’s scrap-based EAF technology produces around 70 per cent lower carbon dioxide emissions per tonne of steel compared to traditional blast furnace methods.
InfraBuild CEO Francisco Irazusta said the upgrades represent an important step in the company’s growth strategy.
“Investing in our manufacturing assets is how we continue to grow, improve efficiency and meet increasing demand for more sustainable steel,” Irazusta said.
“These new EAF bowls are one of the critical upgrades that will help Laverton deliver on its future 1 Mtpa production target.”
The company confirmed the two new bowls will be operational from October 2025, enabling a larger tap mass and supporting higher output.
InfraBuild said the bowls will be rotated on a six-week cycle, with one undergoing re-lining while the other remains in operation.
In addition to the Melbourne expansion, InfraBuild will lift capacity at its Sydney site to 680,000 tonnes per annum this year. The company has also commenced studies, including identifying any required regulatory approvals, to determine the optimal path to reach 1 Mtpa at the facility.
Highlighting the role of sustainable steel in the construction sector, Irazusta said: “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.”
InfraBuild said its steelmaking model in Victoria and New South Wales is based on recycling scrap metal through EAF technology to supply steel for Australian infrastructure, construction projects and other sectors.
