Japan quake impact on energy, commodities, manufacturers

Sumitomo Metal Industries said it had suspended operations at its Kashima steel mill's two blast furnaces after a fire broke out at the plant.  

JFE Steel said it had resumed operations at one of two blast furnaces idled after the quake, and planned to re-start the other later on Sunday. Nippon Steel Corp said it had resumed shipments at all its steel plants except one in northern Japan. 

Pan Pacific Copper said it had halted operations at its Hitachi refinery due to a power outage. 

Mitsui Mining said it had halted operations at its Hachinohe Zinc smelter, and all employees were evacuated. 

Mitsubishi Material said operations at its Onahama copper smelter were suspended due to a power outage.