SMS completes acquisition of Metso’s Ferrous technologies
SMS says it has completed the acquisition of Metso’s Ferrous business, which includes the travelling grate pelletising and “Circored” direct reduction processes.
The deal was announced last summer, and the transaction was projected to be completed for an undisclosed sum in the first quarter of 2026.
SMS is taking over selected Metso business units and technologies located in Germany, India, China and Australia, The German-based group will strengthen its solutions in the field of “green iron”. This approach combines fluidised-bed reduction from Circored with SMS group’s established Open Bath Furnace technology, forming a two-stage reduction process, the buyer explains.
By integrating agglomeration technologies for travelling grate pelletising, sintering and CFB (Circulating Fluid Bed) calcination, SMS says it is broadening its upstream process in the direct reduction route.
Iron ore agglomeration is essential for producing the feedstock required by shaft furnace direct reduction processes as well as conventional ironmaking, SMS explains. It notes that customers will have a single source partner for end to end solutions – from raw material processing to finished product systems.
Long-standing CEO of SMS group Heinrich Weiss passes away at 83
SMS group has announced the passing of Heinrich Weiss, former CEO and long-standing figurehead of the company, who died on 8 September surrounded by his family.
Heinrich Weiss led SMS group for more than five decades, transforming it from a regional enterprise into a global leader in machine and plant engineering for the steel industry. He took over as Chairman of the Managing Board in 1971, following his entry into the family business in 1968. Under his leadership, SMS group expanded internationally, including the key acquisitions of Schloemann (1973), Mannesmann Demag (1999), and Paul Wurth (2021).
Weiss remained involved in the company’s strategic direction until 2024, ensuring a smooth generational transition. Alongside his business leadership, he held numerous influential positions in German industry and economic policy.
SMS group, the Weiss Family Foundation, and his family have paid tribute to his lasting legacy and commitment to innovation, integrity, and entrepreneurship.
