A theoretical analysis of the fluidized-bed process for the reduction of iron ores

Abstract

The reduction of iron ores by gases containing CO and H 2 in fluidized-bed reactors has been theoretically studied. A kinetic model has been developed for the process which considers hydrodynamic effects in the bed and stepwise reduction of iron oxides. The two--phase bubbling bed model has been used to estimate gas bubble-dense phase interaction in the bed. Particle size distribution, elutriation of fine particles and continuous reactor operation are also considered. Model predictions appear to be consistent with reported laboratory fluidized-bed reduction data. Typical applications of the model to the simulation of a single-stage, continuous reduction reactor and the prereduction stage of the Plasmasmelt process are also considered.