摘要
HIsarnaTM represents a new phase in the global direct smelting development cycle. It is, in essence, a merger between Tata Steel-developed smelt cyclone technology and HIsmeltTM (Rio Tinto)-developed bath smelting technology. A pilot plant at Ijmuiden, Netherlands with a nominal capacity of 60,000 t/a is nearing completion and is due to start shortly. The catalyst that brought these technologies together and made the pilot plant project possible is ULCOS. The key driver from this perspective is efficient, cost-effective carbon dioxide collection for potential geological storage. Hisarna’s inherently simple, once-through gas flow path provides an easy carbon dioxide collection option without the need for a carbon dioxide scrubber. Other potential benefits include an ability to use thermal (steam) coals rather than metallurgical coals, plus ability to use lower grade iron ore types. It is expected that high phosphorous ores will be tolerated in much the same way as in Hismelt (with around 90% phosphorous rejection to slag). There is also potential for direct utilisation of titano-magnetite ore types, which could open a vast new and lower-cost paradigm in iron ore supply. Hisarna has a long way to go to reach commercial maturity, but it has the economic imperatives and technical pedigree to successfully navigate the development path. Patience and in-principle support are sought from the ultimate beneficiary of success - the international steel industry.