Effects of Cr2O3 on Metallurgical Properties of High Chromium Vanadium-Titanium Magnetite Flux Pellets

High chromium vanadium-titanium magnetite (HCTVM) is a valuable multi-metallic iron resource. The development of HCTVM flux pellets is a feasible way to promote clean production and reduce consumption in blast furnaces. This study investigated the effects of Cr2O3 on the metallurgical properties of HCTVM flux pellets with a basicity of 1.1. Increasing the Cr2O3 addition from 0 to 2 mass pct reduced the pellet compressive strength, decreased the reduction swelling index and increased the reduction degree. Furthermore, the addition of Cr2O3 increased the softening start temperature and the dropping temperature. The cohesive zone became narrower and shifted downward. HCTVM flux pellets with a basicity of 1.1 exhibited metallurgical properties required by blast furnaces. Moreover, the metallurgical properties of HCTVM flux pellets were more sensitive to Cr2O3 than acid pellets. The Cr2O3 content in the iron-bearing burden of the blast furnace should not exceed 2 mass pct. This research will be beneficial to realize the possibility of utilizing HCTVM flux pellets.