Deacero has successfully cast the first billet at its new minimill in Ramos Arizpe, Mexico, marking a significant milestone in the startup of the Danieli-supplied plant. The achievement represents an important step in the commissioning process and further strengthens the long-standing collaboration between Deacero and Danieli in Mexico’s long-products steel market.
The first billet was produced through a commissioning approach that allows the new continuous casting complex to operate using the existing electric arc furnace (EAF) at Steelmaking Plant No. 1. At the same time, commissioning activities are continuing on the new EAF being installed at Steelmaking Plant No. 2.
This plant layout enables Deacero to progressively bring the new minimill into operation while work on the second steelmaking facility advances. By making use of the existing EAF for the initial casting activities, the arrangement reduces commissioning constraints and supports the staged startup of the new production complex.
The successful casting of the first billet confirms the readiness of the plant for the next phase of commissioning. It also marks the transition from the initial startup activities towards further production milestones, as Deacero and Danieli continue working together to advance the facility’s commissioning programme.
In the coming weeks, activities will focus on the startup of beam-blank production. This will represent another important stage in the development of the minimill, moving the project closer to the production of large structural sections. The planned progression from billet casting to beam-blank production is central to the commissioning sequence outlined for the new facility.
The milestone reflects the close coordination between Deacero and Danieli throughout the plant startup. The successful first casting demonstrates the effectiveness of the operating arrangement adopted for the commissioning phase, allowing the continuous caster complex to begin operations while the new EAF at Steelmaking Plant No. 2 remains under commissioning.
For Danieli, the project further confirms its established presence in Mexico’s long-products market and continues its collaboration with Deacero. The two companies will maintain their joint efforts through the upcoming commissioning activities, with beam-blank production identified as the next key objective.
The startup of the minimill is progressing through a phased approach, with the first billet now successfully cast and the next stage focused on preparing the facility for beam-blank production. This upcoming milestone will bring the project closer to its intended capability to manufacture large structural sections. The first billet therefore marks both the beginning of casting operations at the new Ramos Arizpe minimill and an important step in the continuing partnership between Deacero and Danieli.
