Effect of Hydrogen Addition on Reduction Behavior of Ore Layer Mixed with Coke

Low RAR (reducing agent rate) operation of the blast furnace is one of effective techniques for reducing CO2 emissions. Coke mixed charging is a well-known and available measure to achieve low RAR operation by improving permeability and reducibility. Utilization of hydrogenous reducing agents is also an efficient measure. A reduction test under load was performed to investigate the effect of coke mixing with hydrogen addition on reduction behavior of the ore. Simultaneous use of coke mixing and hydrogen addition accelerated the reduction rate through the carbon gasification rate, and it was also decreased pressure drop. The effect of coke mixing and hydrogen addition on blast furnace operation was examined using a two-dimensional mathematical simulation model. In case of the ore layer mixed with coke, hydrogen addition in the reduction gas increased the hydrogen reduction ratio and decreased the direct reduction ratio. As a result, RAR decreased and permeability improved.