Pellet vs Sinter Key Differences in Iron Ore Processing
Pellet is iron ore pressed into small, hard balls; Sinter is iron ore fused into a porous, chunky mass before it hits the blast furnace.
Buyers and suppliers often say “pellet” and “sinter” interchangeably because both aim to make furnace-feed easier. The mix-up hides the real point: one is smooth and round, the other looks like a brittle volcanic rock.
Key Differences
Pellets are formed cold and keep a uniform shape; sinter is heated until grains stick together, leaving air pockets. Pellets handle long shipping well, while sinter can crumble if moved roughly.
Which One Should You Choose?
Pick pellets when transport distance is long and furnace space is tight. Choose sinter if your plant sits near the mine and wants to recycle ore fines on-site.
Can sinter replace pellet completely?
Most mills blend both; each brings different airflow and chemistry to the furnace.
Do pellets cost more?
Yes, extra processing and longer shipping usually add to the price.