Iranian billet producer Pasargad Steel Complex (PASCO) is about to launch HDRI production soon, as part of its development programme. The company also has other plans for upstream and downstream integration.
PASCO plans to commence 1.8 million tpy HDRI-module in April 2019. Metallized products will be used for own needs and will help the producer to increase the utilization of steelmaking unit capacity. “We produce around 1.1 million tpy of billet now. With own HDRI plant, we will finally reach our full capacity – 1.5 million tpy. But it is unlikely to happen during the first year of work [April 2019 – April 2020],” a company representative told Metal Expert.
Moreover, the enterprise is working on a second DRI project for HBI production (1.8 million tpy). “The construction of the first DRI plant is almost done. As soon as the DRI project is completed, we expect to attract financing for HBI facility,” the source added. The company plans to sell HBI locally and abroad, taking into account the higher quality and less challenging logistics compared to DRI, which is mainly produced in Iran.
To feed DRI/HBI production units with raw materials, PASCO intends to put into operations a 3.4 million tpy pelletizing plant by the end of 2019. As a result, the company will become self-sufficient in pellets. The producer also plans to launch a 3.4 million tpy benefication plant in a long term.
In addition, the steelmaker is evaluating business opportunities in the downstream segment, particularly the wire rod, Metal Expert learnt.
