Work

Melting Behavior of Direct Reduced Iron Pellets with Different Carbon Content in Molten Steel and Molten Slag

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: This study investigates the melting behavior of direct reduced iron (DRI) pellets in molten slag and steel baths, focusing on how the carbon content influences the melting rate through the stirring effects of gas evolution on heat transfer. A computational model using COMSOL Multiphysics 6.1 is developed to simulate the temperature profile at the pellet's core and the gas evolution resulting from the reaction between FeO and carbon within the pellet. The model is validated using experimental data from this study as well as literature on the DRI pellet-molten slag system. Results indicate that, despite the increased enthalpy demand associated with the gas-generating reactions, higher carbon content enhances heat transfer within the pellet, leading to an increased melting rate. The computational model accurately predicts gas generation and temperature profiles, aligning well with experimental observations. Overall, the findings demonstrate that increasing the carbon content in DRI pellets accelerates the melting process.

Source: Materials

DOI: 10.3390/ma18204749

Authors: Fabian Andres Calderon Hurtado, Joseph Govro, Arezoo Emdadi, Ronald J. O’Malley

Institution: Missouri University of Science and Technology

Language: English

Topic: Iron and Steelmaking Processes

Subfield: Mechanical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDGs: Affordable and clean energy, Climate action

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137