8th International Congress on Science and Technology of Ironmaking - ICSTI 2018

The straight grate and grate kiln indurating processes are the two proven and widely accepted iron ore pelletizing technologies. Hatch performed a technical and economic comparison between the two processes, emphasizing their specific advantages and applicability for selected regional conditions. The technology comparison is based on publicly available literature and our extensive database of iron ore pelletizing operations. Included in the comparison are straight grate and grate kiln plants supplied by long established original equipment manufacturers, as well as grate kiln plants supplied by Chinese equipment manufacturers. A special emphasis is given to limonitic ores, since much growth in pelletizing capacity is expected to occur in coming years for processing of these ores. Advantages and disadvantages of each technology are evaluated. The straight grate and grate kiln technologies are comparable and completely applicable for processing of Indian hematite and limonitic ores. The Chinese grate kiln technology is best applied for smaller capacity pelletizing plants and is less efficient.