Pelletizing – Mining
High-Performance Binding Solutions for Optimizing the Iron Ore Pelletizing Process
What Is Pelletizing?
Pelletizing is a process mainly applied to iron ore with the objective of agglomerating very fine particles into controlled-size spheres known as pellets.
These pellets provide:
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Uniform size
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High mechanical strength
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High porosity
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Improved metallurgical behavior
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Higher reaction rate and degree of metallization
When Is It Required?
Process Applications
Agglomeration is especially recommended in the following cases:
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Highly pulverulent ores that cannot be directly charged into blast furnaces due to gas flow obstruction.
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Fine particles below 10 mm that remain as residue.
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Processes requiring impurity reduction and ore grade concentration.
Pelletizing Process
Process Stages
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Moisture adjustment of the ore (approx. 9%).
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Addition and dosing of binders.
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Mechanical formation of pellets through granulation.
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Drying and thermal treatment to confer adequate physical and metallurgical properties.
Binding Systems
Aplicaciones Especiales del Vallès, S.L. develops and supplies different binding systems adapted to ore characteristics and process requirements.
INNOSIL
High-purity, high-performance standard sodium bentonite.
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Typical dosage: 6–8 kg/ton
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Excellent performance as a mineral binder
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High process stability
INNOSIL PLUS
Low-silica sodium bentonite.
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Especially indicated when silica input reduction is required
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Maintains binding properties with an improved chemical profile
JESFORM 303
High-performance synthetic silica-free binder.
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Dosage: 0.01–0.05%
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Reduces bentonite consumption by up to 75–80%
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Improves pellet formation and uniformity
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Reduces losses and fines generation
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Improves CCS (Cold Compression Strength)
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Reduces AI (Abrasion Index) and TI (Tumble Index)
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Enables operation with lower moisture, reducing drying energy consumption
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Improves pellet porosity and reducibility
The use of JESFORM 303 contributes to overall process optimization and operating cost reduction.
It improves process efficiency while maintaining the metallurgical standards required for blast furnace operation
Operational and Technological Advantages
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Continuous product development through applied research
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High-quality, controlled raw materials
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Advanced manufacturing process technology
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Direct manufacturer, enabling greater competitiveness and traceability
