SMS group has been selected by Hybar LLC to supply a second Continuous Mini-Mill (CMT® 550) for its steelmaking operations in Osceola, Arkansas. The new mill will be installed alongside Hybar’s existing CMT system, creating what the companies describe as the world’s first twin CMT 550 configuration. The second mill is expected to increase Hybar’s reinforcing bar production capacity by approximately 630,000 short tons annually. It will produce reinforcing bars ranging from 12.4 mm to 35 mm in bundles weighing between one and four metric tons.
SMS group will deliver the complete CMT mill from a single source. The new system will also be connected to the same renewable power infrastructure serving the first CMT mill. According to the companies, the shared renewable power arrangement could help reduce carbon emissions by up to 35%.
Hybar Chief Executive Officer David Stickler said the second mill builds on the performance of the company’s first CMT installation and will allow Hybar to expand production by using existing logistics, workforce capabilities and infrastructure at the Osceola site.
The new facility will feature an electric arc furnace with EDGE DC technology and a twin ladle furnace station. It will also include the X-Pact® AURA automation platform, modular equipment architecture and a comprehensive digital package designed to support efficient plant operations. A high-speed, single-strand endless caster equipped with CONREX mold tube technology will connect the meltshop with the rolling mill. An induction equalization furnace will support the production process before material enters the rolling section.
The rolling mill will comprise 14 housingless stands and a six-pass MEERdrive® high-speed finishing block. Following rolling, the TBK MEERgauge autonomous laser measurement system will provide dimensional inspection, process monitoring and improved control of product tolerances.
The system will also incorporate an integrated High-Speed Delivery (HSD®) system to support efficient handling of finished products. The twin CMT configuration is designed to help Hybar respond to growing demand for lower-carbon long steel products while making greater use of existing infrastructure and operating resources at its Arkansas site.
Groundbreaking for the second mill is expected in late 2026. Start-up is planned approximately 24 months after construction begins. The project will further strengthen Osceola as a production centre for sustainable long steel products. By combining electric steelmaking, renewable power and advanced rolling technology, the expanded facility is expected to support Hybar’s strategy of supplying reinforcing steel with a lower environmental footprint.
SMS group is a global leader in metallurgical plant engineering, with over 150 years of experience and a strong focus on innovation and digitalization. The company provides end-to-end solutions across the metals value chain, supporting customers in achieving efficient, resource-conscious, and future-ready operations.
