Carnegie Steel had made major technological innovations…

Carnegie Steel had made major technological innovations in the 1880s, especially the installation of the open hearth furnace system at Homestead in 1886.

It now became possible to make steel suitable for structural beams and, with the advanced work of George Lauder in arms and armament, for armor plate for the U.S. Navy and the militaries of other governments, which pay far higher prices for the premium product

In addition, the plant moves increasingly toward the continuous system of production.

Carnegie has installed vastly improved systems of material-handling, like overhead cranes, hoists, charging machines, and buggies.

All of this greatly speeds the process of steelmaking, and allows the production of far vaster quantities of steel.

As the mills expand, the labor force grows rapidly, especially less skilled workers.

The more skilled union members react with the unsuccessful 1892 Homestead Strike, along with demands for reduced working hours and against pay cuts.