Improving Ni-Containing Sinter Indices by the Synergistic Utilization of Different Types of Limonitic Nickel Laterite

During sinter pot tests, Ni-containing sinter indices are greatly improved by the appropriate proportioning of different types of limonitic nickel laterite and application of sintering strengthening technology. After optimization, tumble index and productivity of Ni-containing sinter are increased by 27.17% and 20.62%, respectively, and solid fuel rate is reduced by 27.63% compared with the base case. In addition, the metallurgical performance is overall better with higher RI, similar RDI and narrower softening and melting drop intervals. The appropriate proportioning of different types of limonitic nickel laterite and the application of multi-force field strengthening technology contribute to the reduction of (MgO + Al2O3)/SiO2 mass ratio, further densification of sinter layer and extension of holding time of high temperature during sintering. Compared with the base case, sinter porosity is reduced from 48.92% to 20.18% and SFCA amount is increased from 8.78% to 27.12%. Much better quality Ni-containing sinter is consequently obtained.

Automated summary

Through proper proportioning of different types of limonitic nickel laterite and the use of sintering strengthening technology, the sinter indices of Ni-containing sinter are greatly improved. After optimization, the tumble index and productivity of Ni-containing sinter are increased by 27.17% and 20.62% respectively, while the solid fuel rate is reduced by 27.63% compared to the base case. The appropriate proportioning and multi-force field strengthening technology contribute to the densification of the sinter layer and extension of holding time, resulting in reduced sinter porosity and increased SFCA amount, leading to better quality Ni-containing sinter.