Since 1960, construction and technological improvements have enabled shorter tap-to-tap times in electric arc furnace operation. The conversion cost in arc furnace melting is primarily influenced by power consumption, electrodes and refractories. Increases in installed power capacity accelerate the melt down stage. Water-cooled sidewall and roof elements, auxiliary burners and metallurgical modifications ensure higher power concentration throughout melting. Design modifications that permit slag free tapping and precise temperature control in furnace, ladle and caster facilitate the use of ladle metallurgy. The shorter tap-to-tap times, with a ladle station serving as a process buffer, permit a single electric arc furnace installation to reliably supply a modern continuous caster operation. The single furnace concept is a proven means of steel mill retrofit and capacity rationalization for more efficient operation with decreased operating cost.