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The Rise of Secondary Steel: A Sustainable Choice for Construction

In the realm of TMT production, there is a fundamental division between primary and secondary routes, each offering distinct pathways to meet various industries' demands. While primary steel, derived from virgin iron ore, has long been the traditional choice, secondary steel, sourced from recycling and rerolling processes, is increasingly gaining recognition for its sustainability and quality. 

One of the key advantages of secondary steel lies in its eco-friendly nature. By utilizing scrap steel as a raw material, secondary steel production significantly reduces the need for mining and the associated environmental impact. Moreover, recycling steel consumes less energy compared to primary production, making it a more sustainable choice for construction projects aiming to minimize their carbon footprint. 

Quality is often a point of contention between primary and secondary steel. However, advancements in technology and quality control procedures have bridged this gap, ensuring that secondary steel meets or even exceeds the stringent standards set for construction materials. In fact, in the liquid state, impurities in recycled steel can be effectively removed, resulting in a product comparable in quality to its primary counterpart. 

Furthermore, the secondary steel industry offers greater market accessibility and flexibility in pricing. With a higher degree of fragmentation among players, competition drives innovation and efficiency, ultimately benefiting consumers with competitive pricing and a wider range of options. 

In recent years, the demand for straight bars, a specialty of the recycled steel industry, has surged in the construction sector. Additionally, coil form TMT steel, primarily used for manufacturing rings and stirrups, serves as a versatile solution for various structural needs.  

Indian government has implemented a significant measure by eliminating the classification of steel producers into categories such as “Integrated Steel Producers,” “Primary Steel Producers,” and “Secondary Steel Producers”. This initiative aims to establish a level playing field for all steel manufacturers.

Primary Steel

Secondary Steel

  • Source; mined iron ore
  • Source; recycled Steel
  • Higher initial cost due to mining
  • Cost effective
  • Intricately designed with uniformity and precision
  • Adapting with latest technologies
  • Preferred for bulk projects like bridges etc.
  • Preferred for residential and commercial projects

Previously, steel plants were categorized based on their annual production capacity, process, vintage, and technology. However, this practice has been discontinued, and no steel producer will be officially classified or certified under these labels anymore. 

Instead, the focus now lies on quality control. The Ministry of Steel has issued Quality Control Orders for specific non-alloy steel and stainless-steel products. These products cannot be produced, sold, stored, distributed, or imported without certification by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and the Standard Mark of BIS. This ensures that steel products meet the necessary standards and adhere to quality guidelines. 

While discerning between primary and secondary steel producers may require some research, consumers can make informed decisions by examining market feedback and company profiles. However, it's essential to recognize that the choice between primary and secondary steel ultimately depends on project requirements and sustainability goals. 

 In summary, secondary steel offers a compelling solution for sustainable construction practices. Through recycling and rerolling processes, it not only minimizes environmental impact but also ensures high-quality products that meet industry standards. As the construction sector increasingly emphasizes sustainability, embracing secondary steel is pivotal for a greener future. At Hashtagsteel, we underscore this commitment by prioritizing product quality over the distinction between primary and secondary steel. This approach guarantees our customers superior quality, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability in their steel purchases, driving positive change in the construction industry's ecological footprint. 

By @Suvina E.P on Thursday, 07 March 2024