An investigation into the co-sintering process of limonitic nickel laterite and low-grade chromite via multi-force fields

Abstract

This study is aimed to obtain better-quality Ni–Cr composite sinter for the production of 300 series stainless steel via the sintering-blast furnace process at lower cost. Based on the complementary advantages of limonitic nickel laterite and chromite, co-sintering pot tests of the two ores were conducted in various chromite proportions and then strengthened by multi-force fields. Mechanistic analysis was performed, including the chemistry and mineralogy of product sinter and the thermodynamic and kinetic conditions of the co-sintering process. The results indicate that the addition of chromite effectively improves tumble index and productivity, especially at a chromite ratio of 15%, due to the improvement of sinter microstructure and the thermodynamic and kinetic conditions during sintering. However, solid fuel rate is increased gradually because of the greater amount of high smelting minerals. With the application of multi-force fields, higher tumble index is obtained owing to the further densification of sinter bed and the formation of tighter interlocking texture. Solid fuel rate is greatly decreased due to the efficient supply of extra physical heat. Productivity is weakened to some extent as the flame fronts speed is reduced. In addition, excellent metallurgical performance is achieved. The co-sintering process of limonitic nickel laterite and chromite is significantly improved via multi-force fields.

Keywords

• Limonitic nickel laterite
• Low-grade chromite
• Co-sintering process
• Ni–Cr composite sinter
• Multi-force fields
• Stainless steel