Experimental Research on the Metallurgical Properties and Cokes’ Solution-Loss Reaction of Lump Ores in the H2O-CO2 Atmosphere in the Hydrogen-Rich Blast Furnace

Abstract

Varying proportions of H₂O-CO₂ atmospheres were introduced into the softening-melting-dripping detector to reduce iron ores under a high-temperature load after applying lump ores to a hydrogen-rich blast furnace. Research was carried out on the metallurgical properties of lump ores and the deterioration behavior of cokes. The primary findings were as follows. The softening rate of lump ores increased and dripping temperature decreased under an H₂O-containing atmosphere compared to a CO₂ atmosphere, with significant amounts of Fe₂SiO₄ and FeO in droplets. Moreover, the softening temperature of lump ores decreased while the melting temperature increased with the increased H₂O content. Consequently, the permeability of material columns and the liquid permeability of coke layers improved. The optimal permeability of material columns was observed at 18.75 pct H₂O content, although the Fe content in reduction products was the lowest. Increasing the H₂O content led to more surface reactions on cokes and greater difficulties in separating ores from cokes; however, it slowed the reduction in coke strength. Additionally, H₂O was found to have a weaker effect on coke graphitization compared to CO₂.