May 2026 Volume 8

AUTOMATION

introducing robotics also introduces a different kind of complexity; however, the long-term payoff in safety, quality, and customer satisfaction justifies the effort. Value Delivered to the Customer From the customer’s perspective, the benefits are clear: more consistent surface quality, reduced variability and improved lead-time/reliability. Certain alloy grades require more surface conditions; the automated line normalizes their treatment rather than over conditioning or extending manual rework. The system also integrates seamlessly with existing assets, maximizing the value of prior automation investments and reducing unnecessary material handling and emissions. Automation That Augments, Not Replaces Metallus’ automated grinding line demonstrates a growing acceptance of automation - one that blends digital precision with human judgment. By adapting robots to work like artisans and empowering people to focus on quality and improvement, the company provides a safer workplace, better products, and a stronger value proposition for customers. As the system continues to evolve, further refinements are expected. But the core lesson is already clear: when automation is guided by process knowledge and respect for people, it becomes a powerful competitive advantage. Authored by Metallus staff: Chad Lacher Senior Manager - Bar Based Product Damon Schneider Conditioning, Finishing & Maintenance Unit Manager at Metallus’ Harrison Plant Jeffery Clay Capital Projects Manager at Metallus’ Harrison Plant For more information contact Jennifer Beeman Director - Corporate Communications & Investor Relations. Phone: 330 471-7760 Email: jennifer.beeman@metallus.com

A Differentiator in Round Corner Square Bar Offering While many producers can condition round bar, Metallus’ automated grinding process stands apart in its ability to process round corner squares or RCS bar with the same level of control. Historically, RCS bar conditioning was difficult to perform with speed and automation at high quality. The robotic system now inspects and can condition round corners, and adjoining flats with uniformity for all transitions, producing a finish that appears more polished rather than aggressively ground with harsh tool marks. This capability opens new quality options for customers who rely on RCS products and may be dissatisfied with traditional hand-ground solutions. For a niche but important segment of the SBQ market, it represents a clear competitive advantage.

Throughput, Flow, and Integrated Automation Before automation, as many as seven to eight manual grinding stations were required, sometimes involving up to eight operators simultaneously. Today, three robotic cells perform the same work with equal or better throughput, supported by fewer operators focused on oversight and quality. Downstream, the automated prep line further enhances safety and efficiency through automatic deburring, labeling, grade verification, bundling, and banding. Manual handling on gravity tables and lift trucks—once a potential safety hazard— has largely been eliminated. Packaging consistency has improved, and material flow is smoother and more predictable. Learning Curves and Growing Pains Automation is not always the answer, and Metallus’ experience reflects the boots-on the-ground reality. Robotic systems require new skill sets such as programming, spare parts strategies, and maintenance practices. Early challenges ranged from troubleshooting unfamiliar faults to developing in-house technical expertise. These lessons are now documented and inform how future systems will be deployed and supported. For those considering similar investments, it’s important to understand that

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