Present State of the Sl/Rn Process and Its Application to Indian Raw Materials

Abstract

The paper describes the present state of development of the SL/RN Process, discussing the reasons for using solid fuels as reductants and the application of a rotary kiln as reactor. Especially critical thought is given to the problem of economy ,of the direct reduction processes with regard to the prices of ore, coal and energy. In connec-tion with the description of the SL/RN or Lurgi rotary kiln plants built so far, the special features and operating conditions of each plant are explained. Some of the most important initial difficulties experienced with the plants erected up to now are discussed in detail and the measures taken to overcome these are stated. Reference is made to comprehensive studies and tests carried out with Indian ores and coals in the Frankfurt laboratories and also to the applicability of the SL RN Process to the Indian Steel Industry. Some future aspests are mentioned which, in spite of the difficulties encountered so far, demon-strate that there are well-founded hopes for a favourable future development of the direct reduction process using solid fuels.