Online Modelling of ENERGIRON Direct Reduction Shaft Furnaces

A mathematical model for the simulation of ENERGIRON direct reduction furnaces has been developed. To simulate the reduction steps an un-reacted shrinking core model has been used. A 1D version of the model has been implemented in a software currently working on an industrial plant, that solves in real time a system of partial differential equations. The outputs of the software are used to foresee the product features at the outlet of the reactor and to take any action needed to improve them. The software also has the capability to adapt itself to the different iron ore mixtures fed to the reactor.