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The U.S. steel industry is a $60 billion enterprise. There are more than 800 firms operating in all but a few states. The absolute number of integrated mills (producing steel in basic oxygen furnaces) has always been relatively small and is currently about 20. The industry employs over 189,000 people nationwide. [DOC 2001] The steel industry (including iron production) is one of the largest energy consumers in the manufacturing sector and has invested more than $8 billion in environmental controls. [AISI 2001] The broad North American Industry Classification System (NAICS) categories for the industry are NAICS 3311 and 3312 and encompasses many 4- and 5- digit NAICS. Economic Profile and TrendsShipments from steel industry facilities total about $60 billion annually. Energy Consumption The steel industry accounts for 2-3% of total U.S. energy consumption. State-Level Information Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Illinois, and Michigan have the highest steel shipments. Technologies and Equipment The industry consists of two types of facilities – integrated (ore-based) and electric arc furnace (primarily scrap-based). Energy-Management Activities About half of steel industry facilities conduct energy-management activities. Sources Page last modified on
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The steel industry today is vital to both economic competitiveness and national security. Steel is the backbone of bridges, skyscrapers, railroads, automobiles, and appliances. Most grades of steel in use today – particularly high-strength steels that are lighter and more versatile – were not available ten years ago. Steel is the most recyclable and recycled material in North America, with an overall recycling rate of 66%. [