Iron Ore Pellets

Iron ore pellets are a refined form of iron ore produced through agglomeration of iron ore fines with binders (typically bentonite) and fluxes (like limestone or dolomite). The mixture is rolled into small, spherical balls (8–18 mm in diameter) and then subjected to thermal induration at high temperatures (1,200–1,350 °C) to achieve strength and metallurgical properties required for use in iron-making processes.

Key Features:

High Fe content (65%+ on average)

Low impurity levels (silica, alumina, sulfur, and phosphorus)

Consistent size and superior physical strength

Excellent reducibility and permeability in blast furnaces

Environmentally friendly compared to sinter, as pelletizing reduces dust and emissions

Applications:

Blast Furnace: Used as a primary burden material to produce hot metal (pig iron).

Direct Reduction (DRI): Ideal feedstock for gas-based direct reduction processes due to uniform size and high metallization rates.

Advantages Over Lump Ore & Sinter:

Better productivity in blast furnaces due to uniform size distribution

Lower coke consumption and reduced energy requirement

Reduced slag volume due to controlled impurities

Improved efficiency in steelmaking operations