Improvement of sintering characteristics by selective granulation of high Al2O3iron ores and ultrafine iron ores

The worldwide steel companies are expected to use low grade iron ores such as pisolitic iron ores, high Al2O3iron ores and ultrafine iron ores etc. in their sinter blends due to the depletion of high grade iron ores or for the economic reason. This study investigated the methods for improving sintering characteristics without deteriorating sintering productivity and sinter quality by blending mini-pellets comprising high Al2O3pisolitic iron ores and ultrafine iron ores containing low alumina. The results showed that the blending of iron ore mini-pellets produced by selective granulation is an effective way to improve sintering productivity and sinter quality without increasing the Al2O3content in sinter as well as to effectively utilise high Al2O3iron ores and ultrafine iron ores in the sintering process.