Africa's largest steel producer ArcelorMittal South Africa has issued a force majeure notice to its customers due to a breakdown of its plant equipment. The producer ascertained that the shell of the blast furnace at its Newcastle Works site has suffered thermal damage and needs to be shut down. Consequently, ArcelorMittal’s ability to fulfill its production and delivery obligations has been affected.
According to ArcelorMittal’s notice, the immediate initial assessment was that the necessary repairs could be carried out within a week; however, it has since become clear that a stoppage of at least three weeks is required.
The date on which the Vaal Melt Shop enters maintenance has been delayed until the end of October to limit the impact of the incident on its customers.