Numerical simulation of fuel layered distribution iron ore sintering technology

FLDS (Fuel Layered Distribution Sintering) is a technology that can effectively reduce fuel consumption with evenly distributed heat pattern in the sintering bed compared to the conventional iron ore sintering. In this paper, a numerical model is established and used to predict the FLDS performance in terms of six different indicators such as FFS (Flame Front Speed), sintering time, maximum temperature, DTMT (Duration Time in Melting Temperature), MQI (Melt Quality Index) and VC (Cooling Velocity). The results show that the FLDS can improve the quality indices of the sinter product and make the process more stable. Moreover, both air velocity and bed height have significant influences on the quality metrics in FLDS operation. Sensitivity analysis shows that the order of sensitivity to air velocity is MQI > VC > FFS > sintering time > DTMT > maximum temperature, while that to the bed height is MQI > DTMT > sintering time > FFS > VC > maximum temperature. The findings are of significance for providing a guideline for FLDS operation.