HEAT TREAT NEWS

21 News Chatter to Keep You Current

/ HEAT TREAT NEWS

Heat Treat Today offers News Chatter, a feature highlighting representative moves, transactions, and kudos from around the industry. Enjoy these 21 news items, including Gasbarre‘s portfolio expansion of modular quenching technology, Bodycote‘s acquisition of Spectrum Thermal Processing, Stack Metallurgical Group‘s Supplier of the Year honor from BENCHMADE Knives, and more!

Equipment

1. Gasbarre Thermal Processing Systems announced an exclusive licensing agreement with SOLO Swiss SA to bring Profitherm® modular bell furnace quenching systems to the North American market, giving Gasbarre rights to manufacture, promote, and sell the technology locally. This expansion enhances Gasbarre’s equipment portfolio and offers heat treat operations — from commercial shops to captive facilities serving aerospace, defense, and industrial sectors — a flexible alternative to traditional quench furnaces that can reduce infrastructure needs and improve processing efficiency.

2. IperionX has received a prototype order from American Rheinmetall to manufacture about 700 lightweight titanium components for U.S. Army heavy ground combat systems, using its patented recycled titanium technologies. This order supports U.S. defense efforts to reshore critical materials supply chains and could improve vehicle performance with significantly lighter parts, signaling growing demand for domestic, advanced titanium production in military manufacturing.

3. Jupiter Aluminum Industries (JUPALCO) has ordered two additional patented Vortex 2.0 aluminum coil annealing furnaces from SECO/WARWICK. The installation will expand JUPALCO’s heat treatment capacity while improving process efficiency and temperature uniformity. The project reflects continued investment in modern annealing technology to support growing aluminum processing needs.

4. Century Aluminum Company has emphasized that Emirates Global Aluminum‘s next-generation EX smelting technology will be critical to the development of its new primary aluminum smelter, one of the most advanced technologies deployed in the U.S. This platform is designed to improve productivity, reduce energy consumption per ton, and lower emissions, reinforcing both economic competitiveness and environmental performance in primary aluminum manufacturing.

5. Global pipe manufacturer Tenaris has reactivated quenching and tempering operations at its Koppel, Pennsylvania facility, restoring a critical stage of in-house heat treating capacity that supports domestic oil country tubular goods (OCTG) production for the U.S. energy sector. The restart reinforces supply chain reliability for clients requiring high-performance steel pipe.

6. A Midwest automotive manufacturer is boosting its stainless steel brazing capacity by installing a new four-zone, 24-inch controlled-atmosphere brazing furnace from Gasbarre Thermal Processing Systems. The furnace will support higher production of critical automotive components.

7. A Chinese thermal management manufacturer has significantly increased its production capacity by installing a new continuous controlled-atmosphere brazing (CAB) line supplied by SECO/WARWICK to support higher output of advanced cooling components for data centers, EVs, aviation, photovoltaics, and rail transport.

From left to right: Dan Hill, product development manager of Gasbarre, Ben Gasbarre, EVP sales & marketing of Gasbarre, David Salerno, CEO of SOLO, and David Howard, sales director of SOLO
Two Vortex furnaces for Jupiter Group
EGA’s EX smelting technology critical to new aluminum smelter
Heat treating restart at Tenaris
Gasbarre brazing furnace order to boost production of auto componentss like braking and fluid line parts
CAB Line expansion in support of cooling components for data centers, EVs, aviation, photovoltaics, and rail transport

Company & Personnel

8. Spectrum Thermal Processing, a Cranston, Rhode Island heat treat provider, was acquired by global specialist processor Bodycote plc and integrated into its Aerospace, Defence & Energy division in a deal that closed January 14, 2026. This move brings Spectrum’s Nadcap-accredited vacuum heat treatment, low-pressure carburizing, and gas nitriding capabilities into Bodycote’s U.S. network, expanding regional capacity and improving lead times and supply-chain resilience for aerospace and defense component manufacturers.

9. A Tier 1 automotive supplier ensured uninterrupted production during a planned maintenance shutdown by tapping outsourced burst heat treating capacity from Bluewater Thermal Solutions’ St. Mary’s, Pennsylvania facility, rapidly scaling to meet strict OEM requirements. This collaboration kept deliveries on schedule and highlights the growing importance of flexible heat treating resources in supporting automotive supply-chain resilience.

10. Atlantic Fire Brick & Supply, a company that provides refractory products and installation services for furnaces, kilns, and other high-termperature equipment, has been acquired by Plibrico Company LLC in a move that expands refractory distribution and service capabilities for industrial thermal processing operations across the southeastern United States.

11. The AICHELIN Group has appointed Robert Sokoliński as CEO and general manager of Nitrex Metal Sp. z o. o. in Poland, effective January 1, 2026, tasking him with leading the subsidiary strategic and operational development within the group. The leadership move reinforces AICHELIN’s commitment to expanding advanced thermochemical heat treating capabilities in Europe, supporting automotive and industrial manufacturers with reliable, high-performance surface treatment solutions.

12. Bodycote’s Derby and Rotherham heat treat facilities now operate with zero direct carbon emissions, having transitioned to fully electric operations powered by 100% renewable energy — a milestone in decarbonization trends in thermal processing. This achievement signals growing momentum towards sustainable practices in the aerospace and automotive supply chains, helping clients meet ambitious carbon-reduction targets while maintaining process performance. 

13. NUTEC Group Chairman Genaro Cueva and CEO Daniel Llaguno have appointed long-time executive Rodrigo González as president of NUTEC Bickley, following his 24-year tenure in senior engineering and operations roles. Llaguno praised González’s capabilities and alignment with NUTEC’s values, expressing confidence that he will successfully lead the company into the future while strengthening its position in the industrial heating sector across North America.

14. Thermcraft Inc. announced that Thermo Kinetics has joined as its authorized distributor for Canada, expanding Thermcraft’s reach for its thermal processing and industrial heating equipment across the Canadian market. This partnership brings together Thermcraft’s furnace and thermal solutions expertise with Thermo Kinetics’ local sales and technical support capabilities, strengthening service and market impact in the region’s industrial heating sector.

15. TFL Incorporated, a Houston-based provider of refractory materials and precast shapes, has been acquired by Plibrico Company LLC in a move that strengthens resources and technical support for high-temperature industries. The acquisition enhances service capacity and product availability for clients operating in demanding thermal-processing environments, including sectors that rely on consistent refractory performance to maintain uptime and efficiency.

16. Tosyalı Algérie, working with technology partner Midrex, set a new world production record for direct reduced iron (DRI), marking a major milestone in large-scale, low-carbon ironmaking. The achievement underscores growing momentum around DRI as a critical feedstock for steel producers seeking greater efficiency and reduced emissions. For the broader metals industry, it signals continued investment and confidence in DRI technology as a foundation for future steel and downstream thermal processing supply chains.

17. Claus Joens, founder of Elnik Systems, has retired after decades of advancing debind-and-sinter furnace technology. His leadership helped strengthen metal manufacturing capabilities critical to defense and advanced industrial applications, leaving a lasting mark on the MIM and thermal processing industries.

18. The Industrial Heating Equipment Association (IHEA) has announced its 2026-2027 Board of Directors and Executive Officers, naming Jason Safarz of DUNGS Combustion Controls as president, Bob Fincken of Super Systems, Inc. as vice president, and Chad Spore of John Deere as treasurer. IHEA leadership highlighted Spore’s appointment as a historic milestone, marking the first end-user officer in nearly a century and reinforcing alignment between equipment suppliers and industrial end users.

Thermcraft and Thermo Kinetics partnership in Canada
Atlantic Fire Brick & Supply acquired by Plibrico
Robert Sokolinski, recently appointed CEO and general manager of Nitrex Metal Sp. Z o. o. in Poland
The two Midrex DRI plants at Tosyalı Algérie
Claus Joens retiring from Elnik Systems
Spectrum Thermal acquired by Bodycote
TFL Incorporated acquired by Plibrico
Newly appointed treasurer of IHEA, Chad Spore
Newly appointed president of NUTEC Bickley, Rodrigo González

Kudos

19. Stack Metallurgical Group was honored as a Supplier of the Year by BENCHMADE Knives at the 2026 SHOT Show Supplier Showcase. This recognition at one of the shooting, hunting, and outdoor industry’s largest trade events underscores Stack’s growing influence and excellence in precision metal processing and heat treat services within the manufacturing supply chain.

20. Applied Thermal Technologies Inc. received its 4th consecutive 24-month merit for Nadcap.

21. Vacu Braze announced that its metallurgical laboratory has achieved Nadcap accreditation.

Supplier of the Year awarded to Stack Metallurgical Group by BENCHMADE Knives at the 2026 SHOT Show
Applied Thermal’s 4th consecutive 24-month Nadcap accreditation

21 News Chatter to Keep You Current Read More »

This Week in Heat Treat Social Media

/ HEAT TREAT NEWS

Welcome to Heat Treat Today’s This Week in Heat Treat Social Media. From mind-bending materials to mesmerizing shop-floor videos — and even a few LEGO bricks — heat treat social media had a little bit of everything! We scrolled, watched, learned, and smiled our way through posts that remind us why this industry is equal parts science, craft, and creativity.

As you know, there is so much content available on the web that it’s next to impossible to sift through all of the articles and posts that flood our inboxes and notifications on a daily basis. So, Heat Treat Today is here to bring you the latest in compelling, inspiring, and entertaining heat treat news from the different social media venues that you’ve just got to see and read! If you have content that everyone has to see, please send the link to editor@heattreattoday.com.

1. Looped and Loaded

Warning: this reel of glowing steel coiling in real time may cause viewings…on loop. Mastars Industries brings the shop floor to your screen, showing molten-hot metal bending and twisting with hypnotic precision.

2. Foamed Metals Head to Space

In honor of National Bubble Wrap Day, Ipsen took a nostalgic (and futuristic) look back at its work with NASA in the 1960s. The post revisits how foamed metals — often likened to bubble wrap — were explored for lightweight, heat-resistant applications in space.

3. Forging + Metallurgy + Heat Treat = 🔥

The Forging Industry Association was right: watching a glowing billet get squeezed into shape never gets old. Impression die forging gets a clear, engaging showcase that reminds us why classic manufacturing techniques still matter.

4. Metallurgy Brain Teaser

This post from Metallurgical Engineering serves up a quick #metallurgyquiz to test your materials instincts. Are you smarter than your microstructure?

5. LEGO Meets Heat Treatment

SECO/WARWICK brings a playful twist to serious tech on LEGO Day, showing heat treat principles with a LEGO build that earns a smile.

6. Underwater Forging? What Wizardry Is This?

This post is sure to induce some head-scratching among our metallurgists. Is it AI or some genius innovation?

7. Fun Friday Goes Mini-Metal

Heat Treat Today’s own Fun Friday post brightens up the day with curious kids and heat treat fun — proof that inspiration starts young…and queens = 🔥!

8. When Slag Comes Alive

This mesmerizing reel captures molten slag as it cools from 1100°C to 920°C, revealing crystals forming in real time under a high-temperature confocal laser scanning microscope. Swoon-worthy, especially with Olivia Dean singing in the background!

9. Heat Treat Radio Takes on Energy Policy

Heat Treat Radio connects energy policy to the realities of manufacturing. Informative, timely, and worth adding to your listening queue.

10. Celebrating the People Behind the Process

February is Black History Month, and MetalTek International reflects on a century of honoring the achievements, resilience, and lasting impact of Black leaders and innovators — including those who have shaped American manufacturing. A thoughtful reminder that the strength of our industry is built by people from all backgrounds, past and present.

From serious engineering insights to lighthearted LEGO builds, this week’s round-up of heat treat social media posts proves there’s no single way to tell the industry’s story. Whether you’re here to learn, be inspired, or just enjoy watching metal move, we’ll keep bringing you the posts worth a pause in your feed. Have a great weekend!

This Week in Heat Treat Social Media Read More »

News from Abroad: Furnace Upgrades, Smarter Heating, Stronger Supply Chains

/ HEAT TREAT NEWS

In today’s News from Abroad installment, we highlight several major global developments — from furnace upgrades and smarter heating technologies to expanded structural steel capacity and induction heating acquisitions — reflecting continued investment in efficient, modern metal processing worldwide.

Heat Treat Today partners with two international publications to deliver the latest news, tech tips, and cutting-edge articles that will serve our audience — manufacturers with in-house heat treat. Furnaces International, a Quartz Business Media publication, primarily serves the English-speaking globe, and heat processing, a Vulkan-Verlag GmbH publication, serves mostly the European and Asian heat treat markets.

Ladle Furnace Revamp Strengthens Steelmaking Operations

Tonggang optimizes ladle furnace performance with Primetals Technologies revamp.

“Primetals Technologies has completed a ladle furnace upgrade at Tonghua Iron and Steel (Tonggang) in Jilin Province, China. The project included the manufacture and installation of three-phase electrode arms and commissioning services. Primetals highlighted that the copper-clad electrode arms help increase power output, improve clamping precision, and maximize service life. Furthermore, they outlined that they also reduce energy consumption.”

Read more: “Primetals upgrades ladle furnace at Tonggang” at furnaces-international.com.

High-Efficiency Burner Technology Improves Furnace Performance in Aluminum Manufacturing

The plant specializes in high-quality aluminum wire for the energy and automotive industries.

“TRIMET has upgraded its foundry’s energy efficiency with regenerative burner technology. The facility, located in Saint-Jean-de-Maurienne, France, has equipped its two furnaces of the plate casting machine with this new system.”

“Regenerative burners work on the principle of heat recovery: instead of venting hot exhaust gases unused, their thermal energy is stored in a heat exchanger and then used to preheat the comnustion air. This reduces the energy requirements of the gas burners and substantially lowers natural gas consumption as well as the foundry’s CO2 emissions.”

Read more: “TRIMET’s regenerative burners boost energy efficiency” at furnaces-international.com.

Structural Steel Capacity Set to Double at Major Indian Facility

Jindal aims to boost structural steel capacity to support infrastructure and industrial demand. | Source: Adobe Stock / industrieblick

“Jindal Steel announced a significant expansion of its structural steel manufacturing capabilities at its Raigarh facility, under which the company will double its existing structural steel capacity from 1.2 million tons per annum (MTPA) to 2.4 MTPA by mid 2028.”

“As part of the expansion roadmap, Jindal Steel will commission a new, dedicated structural steel mill, alongside advanced upstream and downstream technology upgrades. This will enable the manufacture of larger, heavier, and more complex parallel flange sections required for next-generation infrastructure and energy projects.”

Read more: “Jindal Steel to Double Structural Steel Capacity at Raigarh to 2.4 MTPA” at heat processing.

Metal Processing Sees Boost from Induction Heating Acquisition

Teams of ANDRITZ and Sanzheng come together at final closing. | Source: ANDRITZ

“International technology group ANDRITZ has acquired a 51% stake in Baoding Sanzheng Electrical Equipment Co., Ltd., a China-based provide of advanced industrial induction heating systems. This further acquisition strengthens ANDRITZ’s position as a comprehensive solutions provider for steel processing, in particular electric steel.”

“The expanded offering strengthens the group’s ability to deliver full-line solutions for electrical steel processing, galvanizing, annealing, and forging.”

Read more: “ANDRITZ acquires induction heating specialist Sanzheng” at heat processing.

News from Abroad: Furnace Upgrades, Smarter Heating, Stronger Supply Chains Read More »

14 News Chatter to Keep You Current

/ HEAT TREAT NEWS

Heat Treat Today offers News Chatter, a feature highlighting representative moves, transactions, and kudos from around the industry. Enjoy these 14 news items, including Haynes International Inc.‘s new hydraulic radial forging line to boost production of high-performance nickel- and cobalt-based alloys, the acquisition of JSA/Metalline by Hubbard-Hall Inc. to expand metal finishing service capabilities across the Midwest, Bodycote‘s achievement of independent validation from Bureau Veritas for its carbon footprint calculator tools, and more!

Equipment

1. A major U.S. bearing manufacturer has ordered two advanced SECO/WARWICK USA vacuum heat treat furnaces, reinforcing its commitment to precision manufacturing and capacity growth. The investment supports rising demand across the bearing industry, where consistent metallurgical performance is critical for industrial and aerospace applications.

2. Haynes International Inc. has commissioned SMS Group to supply a new hydraulic radial forging line to increase its production of nickel- and cobalt-based alloys, serving markets such as aerospace and chemical processing in the United States. The integrated plant investment, which includes a forging machine, reheating and annealing systems, and automated material handling, is expected to improve production efficiency, metallurgical quality, and responsiveness to global demand while supporting growth in high-performance alloy manufacturing. 

3. Hertwich Engineering GmbH has delivered a customized rolling ingot foundry — including an Ecomelt PS120 preheat-shaft melting furnace, holding furnace, and vertical casting machine — to  Remi Claeys Aluminium N.V. The new facility, set to begin operations in spring 2026, will enhance process stability and efficiency for processing contaminated aluminium scrap, strengthening competitiveness and sustainability in the aluminium  manufacturing sector.  

4. Marle Group has purchased and will install an additional vacuum heat treating furnace at its Marle Nowak facility in Pancé, France, expanding in-house capacity for heat treating cobalt-alloy orthopedic implants and surgical instruments. Supplied by SECO/WARWICK, the new furnace responds to the Marle Group’s need for rapid cooling of large loads while supporting efforts to improve production control and delivery times for medical device manufacturing. 

5. SMS group is supplying an isothermal forging module to the Institute of Forming Technology and Machines (IFUM) at Leibniz University Hannover to be integrated into their existing press as part of the EU and Lower Saxony-funded “High-performance materials of the future – oWZu” research project. This advanced vacuum forging system will expand research and development of high performance materials for aerospace, medical technology, and industrial applications, accelerating technology transfer and setting new standards in forming reactive superalloys. 

6. Researchers at the Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER) have developed an electrified heat treatment technology for the annealing stage in galvanized steel strip production that cuts greenhouse gas emissions by over 98% compared with traditional combustion furnaces. The breakthrough replaces fossil fuel burners with electric heating elements while maintaining product quality and productivity, and could significantly reduce equipment costs and support decarbonization in the automotive and appliance steel supply chain. This innovation advances industrial heat treating processes toward carbon-free operation, helping manufacturers meet tightening environmental standards and global decarbonization goals.  

7. SECO/WARWICK has been selected by Brazil’s Isoflama to supply a customized horizontal retort furnace for high-temperature tempering and ZeroFlow nitriding at its heat treatment plant. This new furnace will integrate with Isoflama’s production control system and support processing of large, heavy components, enhancing efficiency and precision to continue serving the automotive, aerospace, and machinery industries in South America.

8. Brugola has implemented CODIAC monitoring technology to ensure reliable tracking and analysis of furnace processes on AICHELIN cast link belt furnaces at its facility. This upgrade enhances real-time oversight of thermal processing parameters, supporting consistent quality and operational efficiency. 

Vacuum furnaces for precision heat treating of bearing components 
Visualization of a radial forging line from SMS group, similar to the one at Haynes International’s Kokomo site in Indiana
Multi-chamber melting furnace of the Ecomelt PS120 type 
Vacuum furnace delivering cooling solution 
3D visualization of the isothermal forging module integrated in the press
Korea Institute of Energy Research team
Isoflama’s horizontal retort furnace provided by SECO/WARWICK 

Company & Personnel

9. Hubbard-Hall Inc. has acquired the assets of JSA/Metalline, bringing JSA’s customer-facing team into Hubbard-Hall’s organization to expand sales coverage, technical support, and response times for manufacturers serving the plating and general metal finishing industries across the Upper Midwest/Midwest. The move strengthens regional service capabilities, giving manufacturers more direct access to supplier expertise, streamlined single-source ordering, and stronger technical support for critical surface finishing processes. 

10. AECO Corp. has promoted Maryann Remner to president, effective immediately, where she will lead the company and its three operating subsidiaries — Alloy Engineering, Mach3 Machining, and Thermcraft — which serve high-temperature fabrication, precision machining, and thermal processing equipment markets. 

11. Castings Technology, a UK manufacturer of titanium and steel castings, has announced the creation of twenty new jobs as it expands capacity to meet growing aerospace demand, reinforcing its role in supplying cast components for the sector.

12. WINGENS CONSULTANTS has appointed Mark Hemsath as Executive Consultant – Heat Treat & Advanced Furnace Specialist. Hemsath brings over 30 years of aerospace heat treating experience, with deep knowledge in vacuum systems, nitriding processes, and advanced furnace technologies.

Hubbard-Hall warehouse 
President of AECO Corp., Maryann Remner
Castings Technology operations in Rotherham recruiting from factory floor to leadership
Newly appointed Executive Consultant – Heat Treat & Advanced Furnace Specialist at WINGENS CONSULTANTS, Mark Hemsath 

Kudos

13. Bodycote has achieved independent validation from Bureau Veritas for its proprietary carbon footprint calculator tools covering nine core heat treatment processes, enabling customers to request ISO-assured carbon data for thermal processing methods such as vacuum and low-pressure carburizing. This validation enhances transparency and helps manufacturers measure and compare emissions, supporting the selection of lower-carbon heat treatment options. 

14. Ipsen recognized six service technicians — Todd Jones, Casey Guinn, Craig Monaghan, Eric Gould, Alfredo Mendoza, and Dom Wirthlin — for completing its 14-week Field Service Engineer Academy, an intensive hands-on training program for vacuum furnace specialists combining classroom instruction with mentored field experience.

Bodycote’s validated PCF calculators covering nine key heat treatment processes
Recent graduates of Ipsen’s 14-week Field Service Engineer Academy

14 News Chatter to Keep You Current Read More »

News from Abroad: Global Expansion and Next-Generation Heat Processing

/ HEAT TREAT NEWS

In today’s News from Abroad installment, we highlight several major global developments — from strategic expansions to advanced furnace and CAB line upgrades — reflecting continued investment in greener steelmaking, more efficient thermal processing, and enhanced aluminum heat treating capabilities worldwide.

Heat Treat Today partners with two international publications to deliver the latest news, tech tips, and cutting-edge articles that will serve our audience — manufacturers with in-house heat treat. Furnaces International, a Quartz Business Media publication, primarily serves the English-speaking globe, and heat processing, a Vulkan-Verlag GmbH publication, serves mostly the European and Asian heat treat markets.

UK Pilot Furnace Accelerates Green Steel Innovation

The Materials Processing Institute received three wagons of components for its electric arc furnace upgrade.

“The seven-tonne furnace is the only research facility of its kind in the UK and plays a role in developing the technologies and processes that will enable the next generation of green steel production.”

“The upgraded EAF will provide a facility for developing, testing, and refining green steel technologies under realistic industrial conditions.”

“By bridging the gap between laboratory research and full-scale production, it will support the transition to scalable, sustainable, low-carbon steelmaking backed by existing secondary refining and casting capability to make almost any steel.”

Read more: “Materials Processing Institute set to start on furnace upgrade” at furnaces-international.com.

New Reheating Furnace Advances Steel Thermal Processing

The first hot billet was produced at Rugui Squares & Special Profiles’ plant in Azkoitia, Spain, on 27 November 2025.

“Rugui Squares & Special Profiles and Fives have commissioned a new walking hearth reheating furnace designed to significantly improve energy efficiency and product quality. The first hot billet was produced at Rugui Squares & Special Profiles’ plant in Azkoitia, Spain, on 27 November 2025.”

“The new furnace will replace its existing reheating furnace, which had operated for more than 40 years and could no longer meet evolving production and quality requirements. The company manufactures high-value billets for demanding applications, including shipbuilding, farming machinery, and construction, where consistently premium product quality is essential.”

Read more: “Fives’ high-efficiency reheating furnace” at furnaces-international.com.

Asia Expansion Marks Strategic Industry Growth

Welcome desk at new Aichelin headquarters in China

“AICHELIN UNITHERM manufactures all atmospheric furnace types of the Group in India, supplying customers from the automotive industry, bearing manufacturing, and contract heat treatment providers. In recent years, the company has steadily grown to become a market leader in India. The new facility supports the company’s ambitious strategic goals to consolidate its market leadership in India and continue increasing revenue. Furthermore, the development of new heat treatment segments — starting with aluminum heat treatment — ​​will be advanced, and export activities will be strengthened.”

Read more: “Aichelin Group Drives Expansion in Asia: Groundbreaking for New Site in India, New Headquarters in China“ at heat processing.

Advanced CAB Line Upgrade Enhances Aluminum Heat Treating

The upgraded continuous controlled atmosphere brazing (CAB) line set to improve operations for a Chinese supplier of air conditioning “and engine heat management components for vehicles.

“This is the second order from this partner, and the first to be executed directly by the SECO/WARWICK Group’s Chinese subsidiary. The new brazing line features a 1,600 mm wide belt and includes a preheating chamber, a radiant-heated brazing furnace, an air-cooled chamber, a final cooling chamber, and a control system.”

“’This is a very important project, not only due to the renewed trust from our Partner, but also because the new line will replace a solution that has been operating in this plant since 2005. The current investment is a step towards increasing production efficiency, improving energy efficiency, and implementing modern cooling solutions. It also proves that our equipment is durable, reliable and evolves with the needs of the electromobility market,’ says Piotr Skarbiński, vice president of the Aluminum and CAB Products Segment at SECO/WARWICK Group.”

Read more: “SECO/WARWICK selected again by Chinese Partner for Advanced CAB Line Upgrade” at heat processing.

News from Abroad: Global Expansion and Next-Generation Heat Processing Read More »

14 News Chatter to Keep You Current

/ HEAT TREAT NEWS

Heat Treat Today offers News Chatter, a feature highlighting representative moves, transactions, and kudos from around the industry. Enjoy these 14 news items, including OTTO JUNKER‘s induction furnace installation supporting low-carbon foundry operations, IperionX‘s collaboration with Carver Pump Company to strengthen domestic titanium manufacturing, Solar Atmospheres of Michigan earning its Nadcap 18-month Merit Status for heat treating and brazing, and more!

Equipment

1. OTTO JUNKER has equipped Eisengießerei Th. Schultz with a MONOMELT coreless induction furnace, replacing a cupola and converting the foundry to electric melting. The system significantly cuts energy use and CO₂ emissions while demonstrating how induction technology is helping foundries transition to more efficient, low-carbon production.

2. A global drivetrain technology leader has selected NUTEC Bickley to supply a CQI-9–compliant isothermal annealing line for automotive component production. The new equipment strengthens heat treat quality and consistency, reflecting the industry’s continued investment in advanced thermal processing to support higher-performance drivetrains.

3. Newton Heat Treating has completed a major equipment upgrade, replacing steam accumulators that had been in service for 20 years in its uphill quenching/cold stabilization operation. The upgrade directly impacts the company’s aerospace processing capabilities, with many parts destined for optical components in space applications undergoing this critical heat treatment process.

4. Kaiser Aluminum Corp., a producer of heat treated, flat-rolled aluminum products, has completed a $25 million expansion and upgrade of its Trentwood rolling mill in Spokane Valley. This marks the latest phase of the company’s long-term strategy to increase heat treatment throughput for aerospace, automotive, and general engineering markets.

5. ArcelorMittal is advancing a major expansion in electrical steel production that includes a preparation line, a continuous annealing and varnishing line, and a slitting line — developments that reflect ongoing job growth and investment in industrial heat treating processes worldwide.

6. A United States military base will receive an electrically heated draw batch oven from Wisconsin Oven Corporation for use in heat treating aerospace components. The industrial oven was engineered to meet critical safety requirements and the stringent demands of aerospace heat treating.

7. JSW Vijayanagar Metallics, a subsidiary of JSW Steel, has commissioned a new 350-ton RH (Ruhrstahl Heraeus) unit, the world’s first operational combination of an RH Ladle Rocker technology with Fast Vessel Exchange from SMS Group. This represents a major advancement in secondary metallurgy and plant efficiency.

8. PROENERGY has ordered four Ipsen vacuum furnaces for its new Houston location, expanding heat treating capacity to support growing demand for fast-start gas turbines and lifecycle maintenance services. The investment strengthens PROENERGY’s ability to manufacture, repair, and overhaul high-quality turbine components while reducing lead times.

Deslagging of the melt
Example of a customized isothermal annealing furnace by NUTEC Bickley, engineered for the auto manufacturing industry
Upgraded Newton steam accumulators
The expanded horizontal heat treat furnace at Kaiser’s Spokane Valley plant
Entry zone to ArcelorMittal’s continuous annealing and varnishing line
Electrically heated draw batch oven to heat various steel parts for aerospace components
First heat of the 350-ton RH plant, equipped with a Ladle Rocker and Fast Vessel Exchange
Line of Ipsen TITAN furnaces

Company & Personnel

9. SMS Group’s South Africa-based Metix brand and Magmec signed a memorandum of understanding to develop a magnesium metal production facility in the United Arab Emirates utilizing advanced reduction furnace technology. The facility will be designed to process magnesium oxide originating from feed sources such as dolomite or brine. The partnership aims to establish a regional, sustainable supply of magnesium for strategic industrial users.

10. Carlos Carrasco has joined the SECO/WARWICK USA sales team as regional manager for Mexico, bringing more than 11 years of experience with the company as a sales representative. In his new role, he will support customers across the region in addressing their heat treatment challenges.

11. IperionX is working with Carver Pump Company to advance domestic titanium manufacturing and thermal processing capabilities in a recent commitment to reduce long lead times for critical pump components used for naval shipbuilding. This addresses supply chain constraints that have slowed ship construction and maintenance. By shortening production timelines, the initiative supports improved fleet readiness while reinforcing domestic manufacturing capacity for mission-critical naval systems.

Metix and Magmec representatives at the signing of an MOU to advance a magnesium metal production facility
Carlos Carrasco taking on the new regional manager for Mexico role at SECO/WARWICK USA

Kudos

12. Solar Atmospheres of Michigan has earned Nadcap 18-month Merit Status for heat treating and brazing, marking a significant quality milestone, bringing every Solar Atmospheres facility nationwide to merit standing. The achievement reflects three consecutive years of audits with zero major findings, underscoring the company’s disciplined process control and commitment to specification compliance while serving industries including aerospace, defense, and medical manufacturing.

13. Tenova hosted Indonesia’s Vice Minister of Industry, Faisol Riza, at its global headquarters to showcase sustainable steelmaking technologies, following an initiative led by Indonesian steel producer PT Tata Metal Lestari. The visit highlighted collaboration among Tenova, TML, and the Indonesian government to advance low-emission steel production, energy efficiency, and industrial innovation.

14. Bodycote has achieved Nadcap accreditation for heat treating, vacuum brazing, and TIG welding at its new 55,000-square-foot facility in Fairfield, Ohio. The milestone strengthens Bodycote’s North American presence and expands capacity to meet growing demand for high-specification thermal processing in aerospace, defense, and industrial manufacturing sectors.

Solar Atmospheres heat treating facility
Indonesian Vice Minister of Industry, Faisol Riza, and delegation with Tenova leadership team at Tenova headquarters
Bodycote’s 55,000-square-foot Nadap-accredited facility in Fairfield, Ohio

14 News Chatter to Keep You Current Read More »

News from Abroad: Furnace Upgrades, Aluminum Smelters, and Steel-line Expansions

/ HEAT TREAT NEWS

In today’s News from Abroad installment, we highlight several major global developments — from digital furnace upgrades at a steel producer to new aluminum smelter plans and modernization projects at rolling mills and galvanizing lines.

Heat Treat Today partners with two international publications to deliver the latest news, tech tips, and cutting-edge articles that will serve our audience — manufacturers with in-house heat treat. Furnaces International, a Quartz Business Media publication, primarily serves the English-speaking globe, and heat processing, a Vulkan-Verlag GmbH publication, serves mostly the European and Asian heat treat markets.

Digital Upgrade to Strengthen Furnace Control at SSAB’s Finnish Site

The modernisation will be rolled out over a twelve-month period without interrupting production.

“SSAB has selected Fives to modernise the control system of the reheating furnaces at its Raahe site in Finland…SSAB will implement the latest-generation Level 2 control system. The thermal optimiser, Virtuo-R, proposed by Fives, will automate furnace control with precise regulation, significantly reducing manual intervention and ensuring consistent results.”

“Smart Monitoring…will consolidate operational data…through intuitive dashboards. The system will provide real-time performance indicators, enable proactive process and quality monitoring, detect anomalies, and anticipate maintenance needs to enhance both performance and reliability.”

Read more: “Fives Digital Technology to Upgrade SSAB’s Furnace Control” at furnaces-international.com.

Ambitious Aluminum Smelter Project in Ethiopia

With an expected projected timeline of three to four years, the completed plant is expected to operate for up to 50 years.

“RUSAL has signed a memorandum of understanding with Ethiopian Investment Holdings (EIH) to initiate a large-scale aluminium smelter plant in Ethiopia. The facility is estimated to have an annual production capacity of 500,000 Mt, positioning Ethiopia as a competitive supplier for both regional and global markets. The project is designed to meet growing domestic demand, support industrial development, and significantly reduce foreign currency outflows currently spent on aluminium imports.”

Read more: “RUSAL’s Ethiopian Smelter Project” at furnaces-international.com.

Hot-Mill Modernization Boosts Aluminum Processing Capacity

Manufacturing the gearbox in SMS group’s workshop. Source: SMS Group

“For Gulf Aluminium Rolling Mill B.S.C. (GARMCO), a leading aluminum producer based in Manama, Kingdom of Bahrain, SMS group has successfully upgraded the motors and drives in the one-stand reversing hot rolling mill, originally built by a third-party rolling mill supplier…The novel drive system, built to deliver 20 percent higher torque compared to the mill’s original design capacity, has restored GARMCO’s hot rolling mill to full operational capacity and positioned it as a future-ready facility capable of advancing research and development in aluminum hot rolling.”

“The equipment is tailored to meet the rigorous demands of GARMCO’s operations, which include the production of aluminum coils, tread plates, slit coils, and foils for diverse industrial applications such as packaging and heat exchange systems.”

Read more: “SMS Group Expands Aluminum Processing at GARMCO Through Modernization of the Hot Rolling Mill” at heat processing.

New Hot-Dip Galvanizing Line for Ultra-High-Tensile Steel

Bird’s-eye view of the JFE Steel West Japan Works in the Fukuyama district. Source: Primetals Technologies

“Japanese leading steel producer JFE Steel Corporation has placed an order with Primetals Technologies for a new continuous galvanizing line (CGL) at the West Japan Works in the Fukuyama district.

“With alloying capabilities, the new CGL is designed to support the automotive industry’s production of ultra-high-tensile steel sheets, which are crucial for reducing vehicle weight, meeting stricter environmental regulations, and enhancing collision safety standards.”

Read more: “Primetals Technologies Awarded Contract for Hot-Dip Galvanizing Line at JFE Steel” at heat processing.

News from Abroad: Furnace Upgrades, Aluminum Smelters, and Steel-line Expansions Read More »

Fringe Friday: Global System Chooses Furnace for Fire Tests

/ ATMOSPHERE AIR FURNACES NEWS, HEAT TREAT NEWS

We’re celebrating getting to the “fringe” of the weekend with a Heat Treat Fringe Friday installment: Global System, a manufacturer specializing in the production of fire-resistant doors, shutters, and smoke curtains, is adding a furnace from a well-known heat treat solutions manufacturer. The device will be used to carry out fire resistance tests for building products in accordance with the standard temperature curve. Critically, it has the ability to test solutions intended for both industrial and private use, enabling them to significantly increase competitiveness and productivity.

While not exactly heat treat, “Fringe Friday” deals with interesting developments in one of our key markets: aerospace, automotive, medical, energy, or general manufacturing.

The contract covers the delivery of a vertical fire test furnace. This includes a flue gas purification system, a complete set of equipment, installation, commissioning, and staff training.

The furnace, supplied by SECO/WARWICK, enables advanced testing at temperatures reaching up to 1200°C (2192°F), in accordance with current fire resistance standards, which are applicable in both commercial building and maritime construction.

“The device may, in the future, support certification processes which the Partner is considering as their next development step,” says Mariusz Raszewski, Deputy Director of the Aluminum and Atmospheric Solutions Sales Division at SECO/WARWICK. He continues, “Laboratory furnaces for fire resistance testing in various configurations are intended for testing the fire resistance of suspended ceilings, vision panels, walls, columns and other structural elements. These tests are crucial for delivering safe construction solutions to the market.”

Mariusz Raszewski, Deputy Director of the Aluminum and Atmospheric Solutions Sales Division at SECO/WARWICK (Source: LinkedIn)
Łukasz Jeleński, Technical Director of Global System sp. z o.o. (Source: LinkedIn)

“Safety and property protection are priorities in every facility. Global System provides fire protection solutions for various types of buildings — from residential and public utility structures to production halls and warehouses…. The device will allow us to conduct advanced product development research, including analysis of resistance to high temperatures and the impact of various fire conditions. Thanks to this, Global System will be able to further improve its products, increasing their safety and durability,” emphasized Łukasz Jeleński, Technical Director of Global System sp. z o.o.

He continued, “The furnace from SECO/WARWICK will allow us to test the properties of our products, and in the future, to apply for their certification. This is a big step in the company’s development. Additionally, having our own research facilities will enable us to carry out fire tests much faster and shorten the time to market for new solutions.”

The technology of fire testing furnaces is gaining popularity among building material manufacturers, as evidenced by SECO/WARWICK’s supply of a similar device to the French building materials giant KNAUF SAS. Several years ago, the company also supplied ALUPROF with a fire resistance test furnace. The SECO/WARWICK system allows the Partner to test new products, such as windows, doors, and façade systems before they are introduced to the market.

According to the State Fire Service, the highest number of fires in recent years was recorded in 2022 (93,453 incidents), which was an increase of more than 44% compared to 2021 (64,730). In the public utility buildings segment, the number of fires remained around 1,200–1,300 cases per year. Encouragingly, there has been a clear downward trend in fires in residential buildings from 2021 (20,633) to 2024 (16,656). The level for production and warehouse buildings has been relatively stable. In both cases, the number of fires did not exceed 1,500 per year. This shows just how important it is to raise public awareness of the crucial role fire protection systems play in buildings; implementation can contribute to improving safety.

Press release is available in its original form here.

Fringe Friday: Global System Chooses Furnace for Fire Tests Read More »

13 News Chatter to Keep You Current

/ HEAT TREAT NEWS

Heat Treat Today offers News Chatter, a feature highlighting representative moves, transactions, and kudos from around the industry. Enjoy these 13 news items, featuring Solar Atmosphere‘s all-metal hot zone furnace expansion, Ipsen USA‘s successful reaccreditation of its calibrations lab, Ryerson Holding Corporation and Olympic Steel Inc.’s merger, and more!

Equipment

1. Three aluminum melting furnaces at a Novelis site in Voerde, Germany, were updated to achieve a more than 40% reduction in carbon footprint and significantly lower gas consumption. This project marks an important step forward in the decarbonization of industrial processes. The upgrade includes Fives’ North American® regenerative technology.

2. Two SECO/WARWICK EV/CAB lines will be installed for a major manufacturer of heat exchangers for trucks, passenger cars, and new energy technologies. The furnaces are designed to meet the stringent requirements of the automotive industry for the production of commercial vehicle components. The installation will occur at two in-house heat treat locations for the Chinese manufacturer: one in Mexico and the other in China. 

3. Solar Atmospheres expanded its operational capacity with an additional all-metal hot zone furnace. The new system significantly expands the company’s capacity to heat treat highly sensitive materials such as precipitation-hardened stainless steels, nickel-chrome-based superalloys, titanium, and niobium. The new unit is installed at their Hermitage, Pennsylvania facility and will meet the stringent demands of the aerospace and medical industries. 

4. Alleima, a manufacturer of steel components and special alloys, will receive a new tube annealing furnace from SECO/WARWICK. The electric atmospheric furnace line is intended for bright annealing of high-alloy tubes and will be used in the production of nuclear applications components. This sale marks the heat treat solutions manufacturer’s 5,000th furnace sale. 

5. Tenova HYL, a Tenova company leader in direct reduction, has successfully started up its ENERGIRON Zero-Reformer DR Micro-Module at Empresa Siderúrgica del Mutún, in Santa Cruz, Bolivia, producing the first direct reduced iron (DRI) on October 7. This milestone of the contract signed with Sinosteel Equipment and Engineering (a global Chinese EPC contractor specializing in industrial engineering, equipment supply, and turnkey project delivery across the mining, metals, and infrastructure sectors) is a significant step in the companies’ long-standing cooperation. 

Aluminum melting furnaces updated for environmental impact
2 EV/CAB lines for heat exchanger production
All-metal hot zone furnace for Solar Atmospheres
Tube annealing system for Alleima
Successful start up of ENERGIRON Zero-Reformer DR Micro-Module at Empresa Siderúrgica del Mutún, in Santa Cruz, Bolivia

Company & Personnel

6. The Atmosphere Group will carry out business for the Region Americas under a new name: Aichelin Americas. Marty Poljan will continue to lead the region as president and CEO of Aichelin Americas. Tracy Dougherty has been promoted to president of Sales & Service and Paul Oleszkiewicz has been promoted to president of Operations. Subsidiaries of the group include AFC-Holcroft, Atmosphere Heat Treating, Inc., Austemper Inc., and Nitrex NTS (Nitrex, G-M Enterprises, and UPC-Marathon).

7. Ryerson Holding Corporation, a value-added processor and distributor of industrial metals, and Olympic Steel, Inc., a U.S. metals service center, announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement to merge. The merger will enhance the combined company’s presence as the second-largest North American metals service center and will bring Olympic Steel’s complementary footprint, tempering capabilities, and heat treated product offerings into Ryerson’s network of value-added service centers.

8. Hiperbaric presented on advanced HIP at Formnext.

9. Aalberts surface technologies announced the official opening of a brand-new 12,000 m² surface treatment production hall in Tatabánya. The event was honored by Levente Magyar, Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs and Economic Relations, along with local parliamentarians, partners, and clients.

10. Wirco recognized Chad Haines, projects manager at the company, for 18 years with the company.

Marty Poljan, President & CEO, Aichelin Americas
Tracy Dougherty, President of Sales and Service, Aichelin Americas
Paul Oleszkiewicz, President of Operations, Aichelin Americas
Hiperbaric’s HIP 38 press for thermal post processing
Oliver Jäger, Executive Director, Aalberts surface technologies 
Chad Haines, Project Manager, Wirco

Kudos

11. Ipsen USA announces the successful ISO/IEC 17025:2017 reaccreditation of its calibrations lab, ensuring continued certification of inspection equipment used by their field service engineers to calibrate heat treating systems across the U.S. and worldwide. The reaccreditation directly supports industries such as aerospace and medical, where calibrated instruments are critical in producing high-precision parts. 

12. Global Metal Finishing has successfully passed its Nadcap audit and officially received its Nadcap re-accreditation. In addition, they’ve also obtained their AC7004 Nadcap Aerospace Quality System certification. 

13. PhD candidate Noah Kantor and undergraduate research assistant Richard Chen, both from Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s Center for Heat Treating Excellence (CHTE), took first place in the annual ASM Strong Bar Competition. Participants were challenged to design a heat treatment for SAE-9254 spring steel aimed at maximizing bend strength. 

Ipsen USA’s temperature control calibration lab now accredited
Noah Kantor and Richard Chen representing Worcester Polytechnic Institute’s CHTE

Find heat treating products and services when you search on Heat Treat Buyers Guide.Com

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Message from the Editor: ASM Executive Leadership Forum

/ EDITOR, HEAT TREAT NEWS

Heat Treat Today publishes twelve print magazines a year and included in each is a letter from the editor. This letter is a pre-release from the December 2025 Annual Medical and Energy Heat Treat print edition. In today’s letter, Bethany Leone, managing editor at Heat Treat Today, shares about the ASM Heat Treat show of 2025.

Attending the bi-annual Heat Treat show is always a thrill. The ASM Heat Treat Society did not disappoint, bringing a full line up of technical sessions and engaging panels to attend between walking the busy show floor, itself packed with cutting edge research presentations and informative booths of key players. I had the opportunity to attend more sessions than usual this year to hear what concerns in industry were being raised at this event. 

On Monday, October 20, ASM President Dr. Navin Manjooran, chaired the first ever Executive Leadership Forum, bridging the concerns and forecasts of industry leaders with the bold training methods of frontline academic leaders. The event was specifically hosted for the IMAT conference attendees at the collocated 33rd Heat Treating Society Conference and Exhibition. 

Dr. Manjooran underlined the intent of creating stronger collaborations between these two groups, with the first moderator, Renee Parente, director of Technology and Product Engineering at Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), further emphasizing the goal of accelerating innovation through open discussions like these. 

Industry Panel 

At this forum, the first panel included a Q&A portion moderated by Renee Parente with the following four industry panelists: 

  • Dr. Aziz Asphahani, FASM, chairman and CEO of Questek Innovations 
  • Dr. David Furrer, FASM, principal fellow and discipline lead for materials and processes at Pratt & Whitney 
  • John R. (Chip) Keough, PE, FASM, chairman and president at Lightspeed Concepts/Joyworks LLC 
  • Dr. Dehua Yang, FASM, president at Ebatco 
ASM Executive Leadership Panel Industry Panelists
Source: ASM International

From this panel came key thoughts on how research in the business world was being developed to further commercial efforts. First, there was a consensus that corporations were investing in research internally but were instead looking to start-ups to absorb the energies of research and development needs. While academic-industry partnerships were valuable, the concern over IPs was reviewed with Dr. Furrer adding that it is commitment to collaborative internal research efforts and external research industry partnerships that is most meaningful. He also added that the new generation of engineers are entering the workforce with new tools of industry at the ready to implement, and this shift needs to be welcomed to keep pace with the speed of innovation.  

Another important thread of discussion in this panel was the need to both accelerate the development of higher performance materials (Dr. Asphahani), as well as implement this development in a connected manner across engineering counterparts, like the quality, manufacturing, and design departments (Dr. Furrer) for effective product development.  

Academic Panel 

The academic panel revealed specifics on exciting current and developing efforts to train the rising workforce. Dr. Viola L. Acoff, the dean of engineering at the University of Mississippi, passionately shared the success of her breakthrough course design to retain freshmen metallurgy students through a hands one MTE 101 course, which includes access to a fully functioning foundry and efforts to grow already present real-world industry experience through industry-sponsored programs. 

ASM Executive Leadership Panel Academia Panelists
Source: ASM International

While the panel acknowledged the ongoing efforts to prepare students to use AI and other technologies of Industry 4.0 (and 5.0), there was a mixture of other emphases, including: 

  • the “plug-and-play” graduate who does not need remediation training at their first job (especially emphasized by Dr. Christopher Berndt, distinguished professor, Surface Science and Engineering at Swinburne University of Technology) 
  • a focus on developing materials engineers who think critically 
  • a close look at the publication system, with some specifically advocating the need to rethink this system as the barometer for engaged students and commercially focused research 

The four-person academic panel was completed by Dr. Hanchen Huang, FASM, dean of Engineering and endowed chair professor at Oklahoma State University, and Dr. David B. Williams, FASM, dean emeritus at The Ohio State University. The moderator was Dr. Zi-Kui Liu, FASM, Dorothy Plate Enright Professor in MSE at The Pennsylvania State University. 

Panelists pose with Dr. Navin Manjooran (front, center right) and Master of Ceremonies Nicole Hudak Nicole Hudak (back left).

Audience 

I sat in a room amidst several dozen heat treat decision makers from both the commercial and teaching ground of heat treat, ranging from student and early career to research veteran and recently retired. Audience members asked their questions after both of the panels and mingled after the session to share a few words amongst ourselves and the generous speakers.  

Clearly, concern for the next generation of materials experts to meet industry needs — both in training and in availability of personnel — was of primary importance. Be it the question of how industry was investing in secondary and primary education interventions or a side discussion questioning how the leaders of both panels were driving young people toward entrepreneurial competition, the room buzzed with interest. 

Summary 

One comment Dr. Furrer shared outside of the panel session was his interest in how the focus of academia was shaping the opportunities available to upcoming industry leaders and engineers. 

Despite the government panel being unable to participate in the forum due to the ongoing government shutdown, this forum proved to be emblematic of Dr. Manjooran’s summary of ASM’s most important attribute: the ability through connections — memberships, partnerships, etc. — to advance materials worldwide.  

Bethany Leone
Managing Editor
Heat Treat Today
Contact: Bethany Leone at bethany@heattreattoday.com

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