Four pillars – breadth of experience, technological depth, state‑owned strength, and original engineering team – build core competitiveness in the DRI sector
Against the backdrop of China’s “dual carbon” goals and the green, low‑carbon transformation of the steel industry, direct reduced iron (DRI) technology is becoming a key pathway to optimize steelmaking structures and reduce carbon emissions. Among the many engineering and equipment suppliers, how can customers choose a truly reliable, innovative partner with full‑process capability?
As the Secretariat unit and Lead Expert Group unit of the China Non‑Blast Furnace Ironmaking Association (i.e., China DRI Association), HBMER (a subsidiary of HEBAZ) is recognized by industry experts as “China’s mos-t suitable DRI supplier” , thanks to its unique four core advantages.
HBMER has exceptionally rich engineering experience in direct reduction and smelting reduction. Whether coal‑based, hydrogen‑based, or direct electric‑current reduction; whether solid‑state reduction (e.g., rotary kilns, rotary hearth furnaces) or smelting reduction (e.g., HIsmelt) , the company has proven EPS (engineering, procurement, service) and EPC (engineering, procurement, construction) delivery capabilities.
| Process Route | Annual Capacity per Furnace | Project Track Record |
|---|---|---|
| Coal‑based rotary kiln / rotary hearth furnace | 10,000 – 0.3 million tons/line | Multiple industrial stable operations |
| Hydrogen‑based shaft furnace | 200,000 – 2.5million tons/line | Proprietary patented technology |
| Smelting reduction (HIsmelt, etc.) | 300,000 – 1.2 million tons | Completed industrial design & application |
“From small‑scale 10,000‑tpy pilot plants to large‑scale million‑tpy industrial units, HBMER has successfully delivered EPS/EPC projects. This is extremely rare in China.” – Expert comment from the China DRI Association.
HBMER does not simply replicate conventional technologies; it continuously innovates by integrating theory with practice.
Upgrading conventional equipment – For mature processes such as rotary kilns and rotary hearth furnaces, HBMER has improved thermal regimes, refractories, and sealing structures, significantly increasing availability and metallization rates.
Proprietary technologies for new processes – For next‑generation HIsmelt and hydrogen‑based shaft furnaces, HBMER holds multiple core patents. Compared to existing domestic and international technologies, the improvements are systematic:
✅ Lower investment – Domestic manufacturing of key equipment + process integration reduces capital costs by 15–25%. China worldwide bottom steel price+ optional effective labour resource. (strongly competitive than others)
✅ Lower operating costs – Reduced fuel and reductant consumption, enhanced operational flexibility.
✅ Better energy efficiency & environmental performance – Higher system thermal efficiency, significantly lower dust and CO₂ emissions.
✅ More user‑friendly operation – Full‑process automated control, reduced labor dependence and operational risks.

HBMER, a subsidiary of HEBAZ, benefits from a strong state‑owned capital background, providing inherent advantages in project execution, risk control, and financing capabilities.
Engineering team – Over 1,600 professional engineers covering process, mechanics, electrical, automation, and civil disciplines.
Skilled workforce – Over 1,600 experienced technicians, ensuring high‑quality manufacturing, on‑site installation, and commissioning.
“For large‑scale DRI projects, customers worry not only about technical feasibility but also whether the EPC contractor can withstand financial and schedule pressures. HBMER’s state‑owned heritage and dual‑1,600 teams give owners a double sense of security.” – A long‑term steelmaking client.
HBMER’s core technical personnel are mainly from the China Non‑Blast Furnace Ironmaking Association (China DRI Association) . The company serves as the Secretariat unit and Lead Expert Group unit – meaning HBMER is not only a practitioner but also a participant in setting industry technical standards.
Fully independent IP – From process packages to core equipment, HBMER achieves 100% independent design and supply, with no reliance on foreign technology licenses.
Continuous R&D iteration – Leveraging the association platform and national laboratories, the company continuously conducts pilot and industrial validation of new DRI processes, keeping its technology at the industry’s cutting edge.
“We do not copy technology; we create technology.” – HBMER’s Chief Engineer at a recent industry forum.
Conclusion: Global Customers Welcome for Collaboration
Whether you are interested in coal‑based, hydrogen‑based, or smelting reduction processes, whether you are planning a 10,000‑tpy pilot plant or a million‑tpy large‑scale DRI plant, HBMER provides the “most suitable” – not the “most expensive” – technical solution.