Slag melt granulation and factors affecting the quality of Granulated slag

An analysis of the state of slags recycling in foreign countries was carried out. A modern principle was put forward in the article: blast furnace is an apparatus for manufacturing of two basic types of products : cast iron and slag. Granulation, as the primary recycling of slag melt fixes the structure with certain properties at rapid cooling. An analysis of the existing methods of granulation was carried out and factors influencing the quality of granular slag were determined, as well as the ways of obtaining granular slag with the required physical and mechanical characteristics. The main factors of granulated slags quality, employed for manufacturing of binding materials are chemical composition and the structure of fine granulated particles. All wet methods of granulation are characterized by high humidity of granulated slag, its value reaching 24,5%, due to increase in granules’ porosity. Real options for reducing humidity of granulated slag may include: development of the process of granulation, ensuring manufacturing of products with increased density and low content of fine fractions, dehydration of slag in high bunkers and stacks at sufficient soaking time and slag blowdown with a stream moving downwards. Using mechanical granulators and gaseous energy carriers (air) for melt’s dispersion is an efficient way of reducing water consumption for granulation (semi-dry or dry methods of granulation). It also makes it possible to reduce r consumption of water, supplied for granulation from 3,0 to 0,7-1,5m3/min. Application of air blast for melt’s dispersion influences its fractional composition and grain shape in the slag: the content of the fraction less than 1,25mm reduces to 49,1%, as compared to conventional 92,8%. The content of spherical grains is with tough surface is 33%, it promoting reduction of residual humidity of granulated slag. Thus, application of air blast for granulation of slags is an efficient way of obtaining high quality granulated slag