Direct Reduced Iron (DRI)

Direct-reduced iron (DRI) is produced from direct reduction of iron ore by a reducing gas produced from natural gas or coal. The reducing gas is a mixture, majority of Hydrogen (H2) and Carbon Monoxide (CO). This process of directly reducing the iron ore in solid form by reducing gases is called direct reduction.
DRI is successfully produced in various parts of the world through either gas or coal-based technology. Iron ore is reduced in solid-state at 950-1050°C either by reducing gas (H2+CO) or coal.

Hot Briquetted Iron (HBI)

Hot Briquetted Iron (HBI) is a form of Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) that has been compacted in specially designed roller presses while hot to form pillow-shaped briquettes, typically around 50 – 150 mm long, and 25mm thick.
The resulting HBI is a high density metallic, containing around 90 – 94% iron (Fe) with very few residuals – elements like copper, nickel, chrome, molybdenum, tin and lead, which can negatively affect the quality of finished steel, especially when it is deep-drawn or undergoes similar deformation.

Why DRI needs to be converted to HBI?

Hot-briquetted iron (HBI) is a compacted form of DRI designed for ease of shipping, handling, and storage.
DRI can oxidise very violently in the presence of saltwater. It can reach extreme temperatures and even combust or explode. It can only be shipped safely if stringent precautions are taken, including frequent inspections, temperature monitoring, and inert gas blankets. For these reasons, DRI is often transformed into HBI, which is completely stable during shipping.