TITLE:
Challenges of Producing Quality Construction Steel Bars in West Africa:Case Study of Nigeria Steel Industry
AUTHORS:
Sanmbo Balogun, David Esezobor, Samson Adeosun, Olatunde Sekunowo
KEYWORDS:
Mild steel, bar, strength, controlled rolling/cooling, thermo-mechanical, conventional-mill,
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Minerals and Materials Characterization and Engineering,
Vol.8 No.4,
April
20,
2009
ABSTRACT: The production of quality high-yield reinforcing steel bars continues to receive attention from
researchers across the globe due to its importance and contribution to a country GDP. In most
of the developing countries, particularly Nigeria, empirical studies have shown that bars
produced through conventional rolling requires appropriate modification of its chemical
composition in order to obtain the desired mechanical properties such as strength. However, the
high cost factor involved in composition adjustment makes such approach unattractive. Rather,
the application of the combination of systems of controlled rolling and controlled cooling proves
to be the best option. This system however, requires some variations in processing parameters to
suit individual plant production peculiarities. In this paper attempt is made to study the
production challenges and opportunities the steel millers are facing in Nigeria. Previous works
in this area are also reviewed with a view to charting the way forward. Experimental studies and
process monitoring were carried out at some designated rolling mills in Nigeria.