Method for producing a mixture of iron carbide and granular, directly reduced iron

An end product containing iron carbide (Fe3C) is produced from an intermediate product consisting of granular, directly reduced iron. Said intermediate product is supplied by an iron ore reduction plant and is fed to a carburization reactor. Liquid hydrocarbons are conveyed to the carburization reactor at temperatures of 500 to 900° C., at least part of the granular, directly reduced iron being subjected to a swirling movement. The end product removed from the carburization reactor consists of 5 to 90 wt. % Fe3C. A fluidization gas containing methane and hydrogen can be added to the carburization reactor in addition to the hydrocarbons.