“Today, we can say that construction of the complex is essentially complete with the start-up of the DR plant,” AQS general manager Yousef Ahmed Al Muhannadi said.

“The DR plant is a principal unit, processing iron ore into a clean metallic iron for steelmaking. The impact of starting this plant is high because it will systematically reduce the cost of the final steel product and allow the company to be highly competitive.”

The plant was built under a consortium agreement with Midrex and SMS group’s Paul Wurth unit. It can produce both hot and cold DRI and will feed the facility’s two electric arc furnaces. The first successful charge of hot DRI to the No. 1 furnace took place on 24 March. 

“On behalf of the entire Midrex Technologies team, I want to congratulate AQS on the start-up and operation of its DR plant,” said Midrex Technologies chief operating officer KC Woody. 

“Any successful major industrial project relies on the hard work, commitment, and cooperation of all those involved. We are proud to have worked with AQS and Paul Wurth in making this plant a reality.”