Low Ironloss-Melting Steelmaking

Purpose and goal:

The aim of the study was to model basic phenomena, as well as construct preliminary test methods for iron ore concentrates that have been reduced by e.g. hydrogen or reformed natural gas. Within the preliminary study, an SAF model has been developed within the RAWMATMIX software, based on a literature study performed within the project. Furthermore, iron ore concentrate has been pelletized and reduced in a series of experiments where a custom-built HTG furnace was used.

Characterization has been carried out of pellets both before and after reduction and after melting experiments. Expected results and effects:

The preliminary study is expected to lead to continued development of the experimental methodology and continued development of the modeling tool. The preliminary study has also contributed to increased cooperation between participating parties. In addition to this, the results are expected to be published in two articles, either as a journal article or as a conference article.

In order to continue developing the methodology, a proposal for funds for a full-scale project will be submitted in 2023. Approach and implementation:

The arrangement is described in the project application and was based on two work packages. A techno-economic study and an experimental study with characterization, reduction and melting analysis. The preliminary study largely delivered according to the plan in proposal.

The project was delayed by a few months due to new safety procedures for combustible gases at KTH. Once the new safety devices were installed, the project could proceed as planned. A PhD student was used instead of an MSc student in the experiments that were carried out.