Open Access Conference Proceedings

In the iron ore sintering process, ensuring permeability to allow an appropriate amount of air to pass through the mixed raw material layer in the sintering machine and flow smoothly from top to bottom is crucial for the progress of the combustion zone and sinter productivity. Moisture control is vital for the granulation and air permeability of the mixed raw materials. The water holding capacities of each type of iron ore were measured, and the optimal granulation moisture for return fines, limestone, and solid fuel was determined through a permeability test to achieve the appropriate granulation moisture of the mixed raw materials. Additionally, optimal granulation moistures under various blending conditions were identified through permeability tests. This allowed for the derivation of optimal granulation moisture based on the type and mixing ratio of the raw materials. A system has been established to automatically control the additional moisture amount based on the difference between the real-time moisture measured by the microwave moisture analyzer and the calculated optimal granulation moisture, considering the type of raw materials and blending ratio. When this system was applied to the sintering plant, it was confirmed that iron ore sinter productivity increased by 0.3 t/D.m², and the sinter fuel ratio was reduced by 1.1 kg/t-sinter.

Keywords: Iron ore Sinter, Water holding capacity, Granulation moisture, Microwave moisture analyzer, Permeability test

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