U.S. Steel has announced a new round of manufacturing investment in Alabama, confirming plans to add a $75 million premium thread line at its Fairfield Tubular Operations plant just outside Birmingham. The upgrade marks one of the first major expansions since the company completed its high-profile merger with Nippon Steel in June.
According to the company’s announcement, the new line is expected to support growing domestic demand for premium threaded pipe used by oil and gas producers — a critical product for U.S. energy infrastructure at a time when companies continue to expand shale and offshore production.
The project will bring new economic activity to Jefferson County. U.S. Steel said the upgrade will result in 44 new full-time positions, 40 of which will be union-represented, and an estimated 250 construction jobs through the build-out phase. Construction will begin once regulatory approvals are finalized.
Fairfield remains one of the company’s most important tubular steel facilities, using an advanced electric arc furnace (EAF) to melt and recycle steel with fewer emissions than traditional blast furnaces. The plant primarily supplies specialty steel pipe products for energy customers across the U.S.
The new premium thread line will bring upgraded automation, precision-machining technology, and digital monitoring systems — boosting manufacturing volume and product quality while keeping the workforce positioned for high-skilled job opportunities.
Environmental upgrades are also planned. U.S. Steel said the enhanced line will be designed with dust collection, mist eliminators, and other controls to keep the project in line with state and federal emission standards.
U.S. Steel President and CEO David Burritt said the investment reinforces the company’s commitment to domestic manufacturing strength and competitiveness.
He called the expansion, “a bold step forward for American manufacturing, our workforce, and our communities.”
“This project exemplifies our commitment to growth, innovation, and delivering high-quality products made in the USA. At U. S. Steel, we are well on our way to being better and bigger...forged in America, and built to be the best,” Burritt added.
.jpg)
The Nippon Steel merger is already influencing U.S. Steel’s modernization plans — including efforts to streamline tubular production and strengthen the strategic importance of its Alabama footprint. Economic development officials say the project signals confidence in the state’s skilled labor base and proximity to energy markets along the Gulf Coast.
Demand for premium threaded steel pipe — used in drilling and well operations — is rising as energy producers continue investments both onshore and offshore. By expanding capacity in Alabama, the company says it will reduce lead times for U.S. customers and lessen reliance on foreign tubular products.
Local leaders have long viewed the Fairfield complex as a key manufacturer and job-supporting anchor in the Birmingham region. In recent years, U.S. Steel has upgraded its EAF and worked to add advanced automation to extend the plant’s operational life for decades to come.
Originally reported by William Thornton in AL. Com.
.webp)
