HBI additives are increasingly recognized for their role in optimizing blast furnace performance, enabling ironmakers to increase productivity, reduce coke consumption, and lower CO₂ emissions. As the ironmaking industry faces increasing pressure to decarbonize while maintaining competitiveness, the strategic use of HBI and its associated additives has become a key lever for achieving operational excellence.

HBI in Blast Furnace Operations

Historically, HBI was used in the blast furnace primarily as a way to enrich the metallic charge and boost productivity. One integrated steel mill in the USA reported a productivity increase of more than 22% by operating with HBI as part of the BF metallic charge. Today, the focus has shifted toward reducing CO₂ emissions, with HBI enabling significant reductions in reducing agent consumption.

Key Benefits of HBI in Blast Furnaces

Role of Additives in Optimizing HBI Performance

Additives such as binders, fluxing agents, and antioxidants ensure that HBI delivered to the blast furnace has the physical and metallurgical properties required for consistent performance. Anti-reoxidation coatings maintain metallization during transport and storage, while fluxing agents incorporated into the briquettes optimize slag chemistry in the furnace.

Decarbonization Potential

The hot briquetted iron (HBI) addition from the top of the BF is a simple way to reduce CO₂ emissions, achieving a CO₂ reduction potential of around 5% to 12%. This makes HBI a critical transitional solution as the industry moves toward hydrogen-based reduction and other low-carbon technologies.

Future Outlook

As blast furnace operators seek to reduce carbon emissions while maintaining productivity, the demand for HBI and its associated additives is expected to grow. The development of additive systems that further enhance HBI performance in the BF will be a key focus for suppliers.

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