Henan Yaxin Kiln Co., Ltd.
Tunnel Kiln Firing of Sponge Iron Enhances Metallurgical Processing
Dec 24,2025
In the steel production chain, the processing of sponge iron—a direct reduced iron (DRI) product—into a more stable and dense form is a critical step. This material, rich in iron but still porous, requires careful thermal treatment to improve its handling properties and prepare it for melting in electric arc furnaces. The method chosen for this firing process directly impacts efficiency, consistency, and energy use. Among available technologies, the tunnel kiln firing of sponge iron has been established as a reliable method for achieving uniform quality in industrial-scale operations.

The operational principle of this method aligns well with the needs of sponge iron processing. Sponge iron is loaded onto kiln cars, which then slowly travel through a long, heated tunnel. As the material moves, it passes through precisely controlled temperature zones for preheating, firing, and cooling. For a plant manager, this continuous process offers a significant advantage in throughput compared to batch-type furnaces. The controlled, gradual heating helps ensure that the sponge iron is evenly reduced and hardened, minimizing the risk of re-oxidation and producing a more consistent metallurgical product suitable for further steelmaking.
The energy efficiency and product quality achievable through tunnel kiln firing of sponge iron are key considerations. Modern kilns are designed with heat recovery systems that capture waste heat from the cooling zone to preheat incoming material, significantly lowering overall fuel consumption. This efficiency, combined with the ability to maintain a stable and uniform atmosphere throughout the firing zone, results in a high-quality, reliably dense iron product. By utilizing this method, producers can streamline their direct reduced iron processing, supporting a more predictable and cost-effective supply of raw material for steel production.
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