Hi Peter,

Thanks for the communication efforts.

From masters thesis "Electrification of the heat treatment process for iron ore pelletization at LKAB".  the link is on SH.

Questions (4) ...

1 -  quote from thesis ... 

"When finally implementing plasma torches in the real process, it will be a good idea to begin by replacing only one pair of burners. In this way, the investment cost can be spread out and changes in pellet quality can be evaluated. If no major changes are observed, more burners can be replaced until eventually the process operates with plasma torches only."

Are the burners not paired together with in a burner module and if so, as stated above, would it not be more informative to run 2 torches together for testing.?

2 -   "The complexity of implementing plasma torches in the grate-kiln process lies in replacing the large flame and the radiation heat transfer contribution that it provides since a plasma flame does not provide the same radiation properties. It is therefore likely that large process modifications must be made to implement the plasma torches and maintain sufficiently good pellet quality. In the straight-grate process the majority of the heat transfer to the pellets occur via convection, which means that changing the energy source has a larger potential for success with smaller process modifications. "

Do you agree with this ?  If so, is it safe to say that you are not that interested in grate-kiln type induration furnaces until you have established a solid footing in straight grate ( no rotating kiln ).

3 -  "If the process air is heated by electricity instead of combustion, it will contain less water vapor as it enters the drying zone and can provide a higher drying efficiency."

This is an added plus to Plasma heating and something you have stated you would love to have more data on to quantify how much $$ could be saved by client.   How is 1 torch ( or even 2 for that matter ) going to show its effects when there are dozens of burners all somewhat connected in a straight grate system to heat and dry the pellets ?

To me if you are looking to quantify the benefits of the dry process gases from Plasma you need to replace all of the burners.  what am i missing ... ?

4 - "Finally, the temperature of the plasma jet will be significantly higher than the temperature of the burner flame. Higher temperatures could potentially lead to undesired effects such as production of thermal NOx"

Is Nitrogen Oxides ( NOx) is one of the few drawbacks of Plasma.  How do yo get around this and reduce it to acceptable levels.  

cheers.