Optimization of binder for improving strength and shatter index of briquettes for BOF dust using design of experiments

Abstract

Effectiveness of Recycling of steel plant waste is very much dependent on agglomeration technique. Sintering, pelletization and briquetting are some of the techniques which are frequently used for waste utilization. Aim of this study is to prepare composite briquettes by cold bonding technique, by which phsico-chemical changesoccurred at room temperature or low temperature. Two binders are mixed in proportion to achieve the required properties specifically strength and shatter index. The design of experiments is used to find the proper combination of binders to get the optimum value of properties. Experimental work for the same is carried out in such a way that minimum number of experiment can give output as desired. For this ‘Design of Experiment’ methodology is applied to select the runs of experiment. After the selection of orthogonal array and experiment combinations, Taguchi technique is used with two variable (starch and molasses) and three levels (2.5%, 5% and 7.5% of each) i.e. L9 Array to analyze the results. Minitab15 software is used. Conclusion and comments are based on the same.