hotbriquetted

Hot briquetted iron (HBI) is a form of direct reduced iron (DRI) created by densifying hot direct-reduced iron fines into briquettes. HBI is designed for safer, more economical handling, transport, and storage of iron-bearing feedstock for steelmaking and can be traded as a commodity separate from loose hot DRI or cold briquetted iron (CBI).

Production begins with direct reduction of iron ore to produce hot DRI in shaft furnaces or other reduction units, typically using natural gas, syngas, or coal-derived gases. The hot direct-reduced product is briquetted immediately while still hot, usually without additional binders, using hydraulic or roller presses. The resulting briquettes are dense, mechanically strong, and cooled to ambient temperature before storage or shipment.

HBI typically contains about 85–92% iron, with low moisture and a minimal carbon content that depends on the feedstock. The briquetting process increases crush strength and reduces porosity compared with loose DRI fines, improving resistance to oxidation and making handling and transport easier. HBI is considered less prone to spontaneous ignition than unbriquetted hot DRI.

Industrially, HBI is used as a direct feedstock for electric arc furnaces (EAF) and, to a lesser extent, basic oxygen furnaces, enabling steelmakers to reduce reliance on scrap metal and pig iron. It is favored in long-distance shipments and intercontinental trades because its density and durability lower transport costs and risks of moisture uptake and degradation.

Storage requires dry facilities to minimize rust; HBI is typically sold in briquette bundles or palletized units. Global production centers include regions with extensive DRI industries, and HBI competes with CBIs and other forms of DRI under various quality specifications.