US Steel has celebrated the ‘launch and operational readiness’ of its direct reduced (DR)-grade pellet production facility at its Minnesota Ore Operations-Keetac plant.
Having already confirmed the first shipment of DR-grade pellets, the Keetac facility is on track to deliver approximately 4Mt of pellets annually.
The new production facility, which will benefit from a $150 million investment, will be able to produce either DR-grade iron ore pellets or blast furnace iron ore pellets, allowing the company to adjust to changing market conditions.
Minnesota governor Tim Walz and other elected officials joined the celebration, along with US Steel president and CEO David B. Burritt, senior vice president - raw materials and sustainable resources John Gordon, and employees and members of the community.
“This is an incredible achievement for our team at Keetac and for US Steel, as we continue to produce the highest quality products: mined, melted, and made right here in the USA.”
David B. Burritt, US Steel president and CEO
“This project was completed ahead of time, under budget, and most importantly, safely. Plus, it created 250 construction jobs and 33 full-time union and management jobs,” said Burritt. “This is an incredible achievement for our team at Keetac and for US Steel, as we continue to produce the highest quality products: mined, melted, and made right here in the USA.”
“US Steel’s new pellet facility is a smart investment in the people and potential of the Iron Range.”
Tim Walz, Minnesota governor
“US Steel’s new pellet facility is a smart investment in the people and potential of the Iron Range,” said Walz. “This project is a win-win. We’re creating jobs, lowering emissions, and ensuring Minnesota’s iron ore industry remains strong for generations.”