Technical information
Preparing a consistent feed for downstream ironmaking.
Pelletising agglomerates suitable fine iron-bearing material into pellets. Preparation, balling and thermal treatment are coordinated to produce a feed with the characteristics required by the receiving ironmaking process. Not every ore product passes through this stage; the route follows the material and end use.
The commercial discussion must match pellet quality to the intended plant. Chemistry, physical properties and handling behaviour influence suitability. From a project perspective, pelletising also requires dependable utilities, material circulation and integration with storage and transport facilities.
Pelletizing prepares an agglomerated charge from suitable fine material. The operation combines mix preparation, pellet formation, and thermal treatment to obtain a product compatible with the receiving facility.
- Input material
- Fine material suitable for agglomeration
- Industrial output
- Pellets for a compatible reduction route
Transformation sequence
- 01
Mix preparation
Feed material is conditioned according to plant design and target product. Size distribution, moisture, and mix components influence pellet formation and their response to subsequent treatment.
- 02
Formation and classification
Agglomeration equipment forms green pellets, which are classified before thermal treatment. Fractions outside the planned range can return to the preparation circuit, according to process design and material balance.
- 03
Thermal treatment and cooling
The thermal sequence consolidates the pellets for subsequent use. After cooling, the product is classified and organized for storage or dispatch. Coordination of the thermal circuit with feeding and material handling is a central part of the operation.
Equipment and systems
- Preparation and dosing systems
- Agglomeration discs or drums
- Classification and material return
- Thermal treatment and cooling equipment
Process control and quality
Evaluation brings together chemistry, size, and physical properties relevant to the consumer. The metallurgical destination conditions the requirements: acceptance must be agreed upon with the receiving plant and the corresponding reduction technology.
Operational continuity
Fans, burners, conveyors, and linings of the thermal circuit require a joint maintenance strategy. Feed changes must be coordinated with process response and available stocks.
Connection to the next stage
Conforming pellets feed compatible reduction processes. The chain presented on this website continues via the direct reduction route.
Process focus
- Feed preparation & agglomeration
- Thermal treatment
- Product and handling characteristics
Output & applications
- Pellets for compatible ironmaking routes
- Prepared feed for reduction
- Specified intermediate material
The process shown explains the industrial value chain. The scope of each Commvensa engagement depends on the relevant project, contract and operating arrangements.
Process reference: World Steel Association ↗