The influence of ore composition on sinter phase mineralogy and strength. (2nd July 2016) - Pownceby, M. I.
Abstract : The physical properties of iron ore sinter are largely influenced by raw material properties, in particular the bulk ore composition and its associated mineralogy. The levels of Fe, SiO2, Al2 O3, MgO and other elements, together with the nature of the minerals in the fine ore and associated sintering conditions play a major role in determining the abundance and type of high-temperature bonding phases that form during sintering. This study using natural ores combines in situ X-ray diffraction experiments in model sinter systems with laboratory-based compact sinter tests to examine the links between iron ore composition and sintering conditions and their effects on sinter strength. Results help to establish the critical compositional and thermal parameters that control the bonding phase chemistry, which in turn influences the strength, a key sinter quality parameter of the sinter matrix.