(p583) Optimizing iron ore agglomeration plant performance - Outotec's solutions for plant monitoring and sustainable operation

摘要

Decreasing iron ore grades and the need to diversify the raw material basis for economical plant operation increasethe need to operate plants at maximum efficiency. Outotec provides reliable solutions to monitor plant performanceand increase transparency of operations. This is particularly needed when changing feed materials influence the plantperformance and require adjusted plant operation.In a current example Outotec identified strong fluctuations in the consumption of oil, gas and electrical energy duringoperation of some iron ore pellet plants. The reason for these fluctuations can at least partly be explained by the plantoperator's performance. This increases the overall operational costs. Therefore, Outotec combines process know howand experience in plant design with experimental test work in Outotec's own R&D centers in order to develop advisorytools as a solution to assist customers run the plant efficiently. Outotec's latest development Outotec Optimusprovides guidance for pellet plant operators reducing the time needed to make the required adjustments in case ofchanging process parameters.First estimations have shown a high potential for significant fuel and electrical energy savings in the operation of suchplants. Considering production rate of modern pelletizing plants this is a huge step towards more sustainableproduction of iron ore pellets. With the Outotec Optimus tool it is much easier for operators to run the plant at theoptimum operating point. Easy readable and understandable graphical displays indicate the optimized plant operationmode based on real time measurements.The modeling, simulation and monitoring capabilities can furthermore be directly used in operation and maintenancesupport which Outotec provides to its customers. Outotec has recently been awarded contracts for the operation andmaintenance of ferrous agglomeration plants and is a reliable partner of numerous operators worldwide. Solutionsrange from regular advisory services through optimal spare part management to full operation and maintenance.