Using a multifuel gas generator in blast-furnace shops

Abstract

The use of pulverized coal in Russian blast furnaces is analyzed. It is shown that the rates of pulverized- coal injection are considerably less than for the world’s best furnaces. The factors hindering such developments in Russia are presented. Measures intended to reduce carbon-dioxide emissions in hot-metal production (the ULCOS program) are analyzed. The introduction of multifuel gas generators of bubbling type in blast-furnace shops is proposed. The hot reducing gases produced in this system will then be injected in the blast furnaces. The operational parameters of a 1033-m³ blast furnace with the injection of hot reducing gases at rates up to 400 m³/t of hot metal are calculated. The injection of hot reducing gases at a rate of 400 m³/t would save coke at a rate of 100–120 kg/t of hot metal. With gas injection at a rate of 700 m³/t, the expected coke savings are as much as 200 kg/t of hot metal. The creation of a consortium of leading steelmakers to develop this technology to the point of industrial trials is recommended.