A groundbreaking new iron-making technology developed by Chinese researchers has the potential to revolutionize the global steel industry. The flash iron-making process, detailed in a recent research publication in the journal Nonferrous Metals, significantly accelerates traditional iron-making, reducing production time from five to six hours to just three to six seconds. This innovative method involves injecting finely ground iron ore powder into a superheated furnace, resulting in the formation of high-purity liquid iron. This process not only improves efficiency but also reduces environmental impact by eliminating the need for coal-based coke, a major source of greenhouse gas emissions in traditional ironmaking.
China, a major player in the steel industry, heavily relies on high-grade iron ore imports. The new flash iron-making process allows for the efficient use of low- and medium-grade ores, which are abundant within the country. Developed by Zhang Wenhai’s team, the technology includes a vortex lance capable of injecting large quantities of iron ore particles into the furnace, enabling the production of 7.11 million tonnes of iron annually.
The concept of flash ironmaking originated in the United States, but it was the Chinese research team that successfully commercialized the technology for the direct production of liquid iron. With a patent secured in 2013, the team dedicated a decade to refining the process through rigorous testing. The global steel industry eagerly anticipates the widespread adoption of this breakthrough innovation, which promises to drive efficiency, sustainability, and economic growth in steel production.
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