By 2006, the products made from Teesside will be exported around the world.

The business produces high quality semi-finished steel in the shape of slabs and blooms.

The product range spans all carbon levels up to 0.8 per cent and includes low alloy grades for specialised products and ultra-low sulphur calcium treated steels for high strength line pipe and offshore applications.

Tight control of physical quality and hydrogen content ensure the suitability of the feedstock for rolling to thick gauge plate and sections when required.

Process and product development are fully supported by Corus Research & Development, which enables tailoring of process routes and product quality to meet the requirements of individual rolling.

Teesside site

The Teesside site measures some 3,000 acres. It is home to three key areas: Redcar where the ironmaking process takes place, Lackenby known for its steel making and beam mill capabilities and Cleveland's coke ovens.

Ironmaking started in Teesside during the 16th century at Rievaulx Abbey, and in 1837, Middlesbrough Ironworks opened. At one time there were over 100 blast furnaces along the River Tees producing 2.5 million tonnes of iron each year. Today, one blast furnace at Redcar produces 3.5 million tonnes of iron each year.

Steel made from Teesside can be seen in structures all around the world, from Canary Wharf in London to the Sydney Harbour Bridge in Australia.