Direct reduction of iron at Algerian Qatari Steel (AQS)

Abstract

The Bellara Steel Complex of Algerian Qatari Steel company (AQS) uses one of the best advanced technologies for the production of reinforcing steel bars and rods of different diameters. The raw material, in the form of pellets primarily composed of iron oxide (hematite, Fe2O3), is reduced in the direct reduction unit using MIDREX technology with the aid of gas. In this study, we focused on the direct iron reduction process using MIDREX technology by describing the process and conducting various tests to ensure the quality of the reduced iron after this crucial first step in obtaining a finished product that meets international market requirements.