Cold briquetting of sponge iron (CBSI): parameters and effectiveness

Abstract

The oxidation of sponge iron products and its destructive effects on iron content as well as other properties have been considered by ferrous technologists for a long time. In this investigation, a unique new low temperature method of preventing and/or retarding the oxidation of direct reduced iron is introduced. Experimental results from laboratory and pilot plant tests show the success of the method which has been named cold briquetting of sponge iron. The optimum condition for briquetting is achieved at 80 kN (Lcm)⁻¹, 6% binder, 10% sponge iron fines and 4% anthracite. While hot briquetted iron has become a successful method for the new generation of iron reduction plants, cold briquetting of sponge iron could become a suitable technique to protect direct reduced iron products against oxidation for traditional iron reduction units.