TECHNOLOGY & PRODUCTS
MXCol
Direct reduction for coal energy systems
The MIDREX coal and syngas configuration
MIDREX MxCol™ is a configuration of the MIDREX™ Process that uses synthesis gas (syngas) generated from coal gasification as the reducing gas source. It enables direct reduction in regions where syngas from coal gasifiers or other industrial sources is the most economical or structurally available energy option, particularly where natural gas supply is limited or expensive.
MXCol applies the same MIDREX™ Shaft Furnace design, process control philosophy, and operating principles used across the Midrex technology portfolio. It can use reducing gas derived from various syngas sources while maintaining established MIDREX Process performance
Key features
Can utilize reducing gas derived from multiple syngas sources, including coal gasification, export gas from COREX™, and coke oven gas.
Integrates commercially available gasification technologies with the MIDREX Shaft Furnace.
Produces cold DRI (CDRI), hot DRI (HDRI), or HBI depending on plant configuration and downstream requirements.
Supports the use of a wide range of coal qualities, as well as alternative carbonaceous feedstocks.
Provides a viable configuration where natural gas supply is uncertain or when energy cost volatility is a consideration.
Maintains established MIDREX Process reliability, productivity, and operating principles.
When to choose MXCol
Energy context
Projects where coal-based syngas or gasification infrastructure is available and natural gas supply is limited, uncertain, or cost-constrained.
Decarbonization goal
Maintain reliable DRI production while improving efficiency and enabling incremental emissions reduction within existing energy systems.
Typical project type
New-build or retrofit DRI plants in regions with established coal or syngas infrastructure and constrained access to natural gas.
Projects
thyssenkrupp Steel Selects MIDREX Flex™ for Immediate CO₂ Emissions Reduction
Plant designed with flexibility to operate at different ratios of natural gas and H2, up to 100% H2
Capacity: 2.5 million t/year of DRI
Products: Hot Metal and Granulated Slag
Duisburg, Germany
Download the technical brochure
Download the MIDREX MxCol technical brochure to learn more.