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SSAB to Build New R&D Facility for North American Division
12/22/2008 - ABSTRACT: SSAB announces plans to construct a research and development facility adjacent to its steel mill in Montpelier, Iowa, replacing the R&D lab that had been sold earlier this year along with SSAB's tubular operations.
SSAB announced plans to construct a research and development facility adjacent to its steel mill in Montpelier, Iowa.
The company said the new facility will enhance the Division's ability to service its customers and operations in both the United States and Canada. It will replace the research and development laboratory that was included in the sale of SSAB's tubular operations earlier this year.
“The establishment of the R&D lab at SSAB North American Division is an important step to strengthen the company's position as a global leader in value-added steel, especially quenched and tempered, as well as rolled heavy plate products,” said Martin Pei, Executive Vice President, Technical Development at SSAB. “SSAB's R&D strategy focuses on continuous improvement activities within process, product and application technologies to satisfy our customers' needs.”
The US $11-million investment will comprise a new building and a variety of specialized testing, simulation and metallographic equipment. The department is to be staffed by 13 full-time employees, including both professional and support staff.
“This research and development facility will increase our ability to provide the excellent customer support that SSAB is known for, as well as allow us to continue development of our value-added niche product lines,” said Dr. Steve Hansen, Vice President and Chief Technical Officer for SSAB's North American Division. “The investment speaks highly of the strategic emphasis that SSAB places on research and development, and continuous improvement, especially given the current business environment.”
Construction on the new facility is scheduled to commence in early 2009, with operations expected to begin in the third quarter of 2009.
The US $11-million investment will comprise a new building and a variety of specialized testing, simulation and metallographic equipment. The department is to be staffed by 13 full-time employees, including both professional and support staff.
“This research and development facility will increase our ability to provide the excellent customer support that SSAB is known for, as well as allow us to continue development of our value-added niche product lines,” said Dr. Steve Hansen, Vice President and Chief Technical Officer for SSAB's North American Division. “The investment speaks highly of the strategic emphasis that SSAB places on research and development, and continuous improvement, especially given the current business environment.”
Construction on the new facility is scheduled to commence in early 2009, with operations expected to begin in the third quarter of 2009.
SSAB, a global niche producer of high-strength steel with a leading market position and productivity, develops solutions in order to increase the competitiveness of its customers.
