Optimizing Energy Consumption in Hydrogen Reduction of Iron Ore Pellet: Insights from HSC Chemistry Analysis

Abstract

Iron ore pellet reduction in shaft furnaces represents a critical process in the steelmaking industry, with energy consumption being a key factor influencing both economic viability and environmental sustainability. This study employs HSC Chemistry software to model and simulate the energy consumption of hydrogen reduction of iron ore pellets under varying water vapor content within the shaft furnace. Thermodynamic modeling was carried out as the first step to analyze the effect of water vapor on the thermodynamic equilibrium, determining the possible range of water vapor content. Subsequently, energy consumption of the process was modeled based on heat and mass balance. Through comprehensive analysis, we investigate the impact of water vapor on the overall energy efficiency of the process based on the two scenarios of supplying the required heat by preheating the feed materials or injection of oxygen to the furnace. Our findings reveal significant insights into optimizing energy consumption and operational parameters to enhance the sustainability and cost-effectiveness of iron ore pellet reduction. This research contributes to the ongoing efforts towards achieving greater efficiency and reduced environmental footprint in the steelmaking industry.