BOF blowing process challenges for high rate of iron ore pellet addition - Process development and results at Ternium Brasil

Abstract

At Ternium Brasil, formerly thyssenkrupp CSA, a positive heat balance at the BOF process is faced, mainly because of low utilization of scrap and plant design. A singular logistic concept for hot metal transport between the blast furnace and the steel plant was established to optimize transportation and energy balance. Up to 80 kg of iron ore pellets per ton of steel is necessary for a 340-t BOF heat balance. In order to accomplish this, a stable blowing process and intensive operational development have been executed: a slopping rate reduction of 80% was achieved without changing the blowing time. This paper describes the steps of this development and the results.