Abstract
Agglomeration of iron ore materials represents one of the methods of iron ore preparation. This process takes place in the gas-liquid-solid phase system, where the gaseous phase ensures the course of decisive processes (fuel burning, heat transfer, oxidation and reduction processes), while the liquid phase is generated by melting of the fine grained iron ore particles and alkali materials. The agglomeration process produces solid porous agglomerates, which represent the basic component of blast furnace charge. However, agglomeration plants are among industries that contribute significantly to environment pollution. The aim of our experiments was to analyze the effect of selected parameters of sintering on the formation of gaseous and particulate matter pollutants with regard to the agglomerate quality. On the basis of the theoretical knowledge the effect of the sucked air under-pressure and humidity of the agglomeration mixture, the regulation of which can contribute to the reduction of environmental burden of emissions, was examined under laboratory conditions. The research included seven sintering procedures, the diversity of which was ensured by the change of technological parameters of the agglomeration process. Pollutant concentrations were recorded by combustion product analyzers; the agglomerate quality was monitored by tests in accordance with STN standards.