TEK7 Precision in the lab, performance in the plant.
Laboratory Testing & Pot Grate Test
At TEK7, laboratory testing especially the Pot Grate Test is a crucial step in understanding and optimising pellet quality. By replicating the pelletising process under controlled conditions, we generate reliable data that drives smarter engineering decisions and ensures consistent high-quality output. Our tailored testing approach helps fine-tune operations, verify product performance, and troubleshoot process challenges, delivering results you can trust for every upgrade project.
— TEK7
Laboratory testing, especially the Pot Grate Test, is a vital step in evaluating the performance of iron ore pellets within the pelletising process. These tests help define the structural and metallurgical characteristics of the pellets produced under different process configurations, providing valuable insights for process optimisation and quality control.
As part of each proposed upgrade option, TEK7 will design a tailored set of pot grate tests to simulate the full pelletising process under controlled laboratory conditions. The results offer critical data to guide engineering decisions and ensure the upgraded plant delivers consistent, high-quality pellet output.
Key Benefits
- Process Optimisation; Pot grate testing enables the fine-tuning of operational parameters such as green pellet moisture content, firing temperature, and residence time to achieve optimal pellet quality, reduce energy consumption, and increase process efficiency.
- Quality Assurance; Tests confirm that the iron ore pellets meet required industry standards and client specifications, supporting long-term quality control and market competitiveness.
- Product Performance Evaluation; Pellets are assessed for their physical and reduction properties, including size distribution, compressive strength, and metallurgical behaviour. These insights are critical for ensuring durability during transportation and consistent performance in ironmaking.
- Process Troubleshooting; Testing helps identify bottlenecks or deficiencies in the current or proposed process setups. By isolating issues, targeted improvements can be made to minimise production losses and improve reliability.
Test Parameters
- Green Pellet Properties
- Compression Strength
- Drop Number
- Shock Temperature Resistance
- Bulk Density
- Fired Pellet Properties
- Compression Strength
- Tumble Strength and Abrasion Index
- Reduction Behaviour:
- Sticking Index
- Disintegration Index
- Metallisation Index
TEK7 manages the entire laboratory testing process in-house, covering test design and preparation, execution, supervision, and analysis. Our team of experienced process engineers ensures that each Pot Grate Test is precisely tailored to the specific upgrade scenario under consideration. All tests are performed using TEK7’s own testing protocols, equipment, and technical resources to maintain consistency, accuracy, and traceability.
By keeping full control of the testing workflow, TEK7 guarantees high-quality data generation, faster turnaround times, and actionable results that directly support engineering decisions and process optimisation.
