Improving blast-furnace efficiency by regulating the properties of iron-ore pellets

Abstract

New principles are proposed for the quality control of iron-ore pellets by monitoring their reducing properties, softening temperature range, and strength on reduction (hot strength). For the example of pellets produced by AO Mikhailovskii GOK, this approach is shown to significantly improve the efficiency of blast-furnace smelting. The pellets’ reducing properties, softening temperature range, and hot strength are taken into account in calculating the market price of the iron-ore pellets. That improves the efficiency of mining and steel production.