US Steel's Minnesota facility to commence production of DR-grade pellets

US Steel has shared news regarding the commencement of iron ore pellet production at its plant situated in Catac, Minnesota on 23 May 2024. Constructed in 2022 with a substantial investment of $150 million, this new pellet facility has the capability to generate an annual output of 4.5 mnt.

US Steel has shifted their focus in Catac from making iron ore pellets for blast furnaces to also producing pellets for DRI, a method gaining popularity for aiding in carbon neutrality.

Ketac has recently boosted their pellet output, enabling them to manufacture 6 mnt for blast furnaces and 4 mnt for DRI. Nevertheless, they have the flexibility to modify their production levels as per market demands.

However, the company does not have a DRI plant so it will distribute their iron ore pellets to external companies producing DRI. Yet, US Steel aims to construct their own DRI facility in the coming years, allowing them to produce iron with their self-made pellets.

Note: This article has been covered under article exchange agreement with Japan Metal Daily.