Henan Yaxin Kiln Co., Ltd.
Tunnel Kiln Firing of Sponge Iron Improves Steelmaking Input
Dec 26,2025
Within the steel industry, the efficient transformation of raw materials into usable feedstock is a constant focus. Sponge iron, also known as direct reduced iron (DRI), is a vital metallic input for many electric arc furnaces. However, its porous, reactive nature requires stabilization before transport and further processing to prevent re-oxidation and ensure consistent melting. The method chosen for this thermal treatment impacts both operational efficiency and final product quality. The tunnel kiln firing of sponge iron has become a recognized approach for achieving this on a large scale.

The continuous design of a tunnel kiln is well-suited to this task. Sponge iron is loaded onto rail cars that slowly travel through the elongated kiln, passing sequentially through preheating, high-temperature firing, and controlled cooling zones. For plant operators, this uninterrupted process allows for a steady, high-volume output of stabilized material. The controlled, uniform heating environment is critical. It ensures the sponge iron is hardened and densified consistently throughout the load, reducing variability in the feedstock sent to the steelmaking furnace and improving downstream process predictability.
The operational benefits extend to energy management and automation. Modern systems designed for the tunnel kiln firing of sponge iron often incorporate heat recovery, using exhaust from the cooling zone to preheat incoming material. This significantly reduces overall fuel consumption. Furthermore, the high degree of automation allows for precise control over temperature profiles and atmospheric conditions within the kiln, minimizing product loss and optimizing the metallurgical properties of the fired iron. This method provides a reliable way to convert volatile sponge iron into a robust, transportable commodity, supporting a more streamlined and efficient steel production flow.
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