In light of weak European market conditions, ThyssenKrupp is to close its production at Terni for three weeks in August, rather than the traditional one or two week break (see European highlights). During this time it is to upgrade the power supply to the plant's EAFs and repair a walking beam furnace. The upgrades should reduce production costs and could also boost output. In addition, the company continues to expand its stainless steel operations at Terni, It has started work on the 124m euros investment programme it promised earlier this year, when negotiating with workers over the upcoming cessation of grain-oriented electrical steels output at the site (see February's Stainless Steels Monthly). Construction has reportedly begun on a 30m euros cold rolling mill with an output capacity of 100,000 tonnes per year, which could roll its first coil in 2006, In addition, ThyssenKrupp Steel has plans to open a stainless service centre in Guangzhou, China. The centre would serve regional customers and could begin operations in the autumn.
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