Volume 62

Microwave Drying of Iron Pellets and Tailings in Pelletization Processes Azlan Aslam, Adel Ahmadihosseini, Hamed Rafezi, Kim Leong Liaw, Xiangda Cui, Ferri Hassani, Agus Sasmito

Abstract

Drying is a critical stage in iron production through pelletization, accounting for a substantial share of the total energy demand. Conventional convective drying methods face limitations in efficiency, particularly with larger pellets and moisture-rich tailings. This study investigates the application of microwave technology as an alternative drying method for iron pellets and tailings. Drying experiments were conducted using both convective oven at 300 °C and a 15 kW industrial microwave system operated at different power levels. The results demonstrate that microwave drying dramatically reduces drying time and energy consumption compared to conventional methods. For iron pellets, microwave drying achieved the target residual moisture content more than six times faster and with nearly 30% lower energy usage. For tailings, the improvements were even greater, with drying more than thirteen times faster and energy consumption reduced by over 50%. These findings highlight the potential of microwave technology to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of pelletization processes in iron production.

Keywords drying, iron ore pellets, tailings, convective heating, microwave, energy efficiency