Carpenter Technology Corp. announced it plans to construct a bar finishing facility in China to meet increased customer demand in Asia. A final location has not yet been determined. The wholly owned facility is expected to be completed in 18-24 months at a total capital cost of about $20 million. The facility will have initial capacity to process approximately 1,500 tons annually of premium small-diameter bar.             

In other news, Carpenter Technology Corp. commenced a process to sell Latrobe Specialty Steel Distribution (LSSD) and its Mexican distribution business, Aceros Fortuna. The sale of the distribution businesses reflects Carpenter’s continued focus on growing its high-value specialty alloy manufacturing, titanium processing and precision engineered businesses. Carpenter expects that proceeds from a sale will be reinvested in Carpenter’s premium product businesses. Carpenter will continue to service sales of its special alloy products in Mexico and South America through the retention of selected warehouses and employees.