Laboratory iron ore sintering studies. 2. Quantifying flame front properties

The performance of a sinter machine and the quality of the ensuing product are strongly dependent on the processes occurring in the descending flame front. As it is not possible to measure flame front properties in a sintering bed directly, embedded thermocouples are used to provide information in this area. Through making some assumptions, it is possible to assess flame front properties using the obtained thermocouple profiles. Flame front speed, thickness and maximum temperature are identified as important parameters. The total heat transferred to the material from the flame front is a function of these parameters. Experimental results show that increasing flame front speed decreases residence time, maximum temperatures and total heat transferred to the bed. Only indicative trends can be obtained because of the variability in thermocouple results, which are inherent in the experimental technique. Coke combustion efficiency also depends on flame front speed