Features

AISI: Raw steel production stable at reduced levels

Written by Brett Linton

January 27, 2025

Raw steel mill production edged down slightly last week, according to recent figures released by the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI). Prior to January, domestic production had modestly recovered following the large drop seen in October. Last week’s production figure represents the second-lowest rate recorded in the last two months.

Total US mill output was estimated at 1,641,000 short tons (st) through the week ending Jan. 25 (Figure 1). Production eased 3,000 tons or 0.2% from the previous week.

Raw production was 0.2% lower than the year-to-date average of 1,645,000 st per week. Production is 0.7% higher than the same week last year (1,629,000 st). 

Last week’s mill capability utilization rate was 73.7%, slightly lower than the prior week’s 73.8% rate. Utilization rates remain slightly above those seen this time last year (73.3%).

Year-to-date production now stands at 5,878,000 st at a capability utilization rate of 73.9%. This is 1.0% greater than the same period of last year, when 5,818,000 st had been produced at a capability utilization rate of 73.3%.

Weekly regional production data and week-over-week (w/w) changes are as follows:

  • Northeast – 123,000 st (up 5,000 st w/w)
  • Great Lakes – 505,000 st (up 10,000 st)
  • Midwest – 245,000 st (up 4,000 st)
  • South – 703,000 st (down 28,000 st)
  • West – 65,000 st (up 6,000 st)

Editor’s note: The raw steel production tonnage provided in this report is estimated and should be used primarily to assess production trends. The graphic included in this report shows unadjusted weekly data. The monthly AISI “AIS 7” report is available by subscription and provides a more detailed summary of domestic steel production.

Brett Linton

Brett Linton is a senior analyst for Steel Market Update, where he began his career. Linton has been in the steel industry since 2010. He has held roles as a category manager and strategic insights director at Reibus before returning to SMU in 2024. He is a graduate of The University of North Georgia with a degree in Finance and Accounting. Brett can be reached at brett@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-314-0179.

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