Abstract: A method and apparatus for discharging cold product or a combination of cold and hot products from a continuous supply of hot direct reduced iron (“DRI”) comprising a product cooler connected to a shaft furnace, with downward movement of the hot DRI and upward concurrent flow of cooling gas through the product cooler. The method and apparatus provides for diverting of hot DRI from an upper portion of the cooler for gravitational transfer to an adjacent storage unit located at a lower elevation than the furnace. The product cooler is situated at a lower height in relation to the furnace, for gravity transfer of a continuous supply of hot DRI through an entry point into the cooler. Cooler provides for cooling gas injection into the lower portion of the cooler, with gas flow upward and counter-current to the hot DRI that descends through the cooler. Recovered cooling gas is scrubbed, cooled, and recycled back for injection into the bottom portion of the cooler.

Abstract: A screening and sizing apparatus for handling clusters or clumps of particulate material in which a roller table is provided with a series of equally spaced anvils or lugs for moving clusters of particulates across the rolls of the roller table and for breaking large lumps or clusters of material by forcing them against adjacent rolls or lugs. An alternative embodiment includes a tramp door through which large particles are passed to a separate bin or receptacle. Another alternative embodiment includes a cooperating, eccentrically mounted cluster breaker above the roller table.

Abstract: Apparatus for contacting a packed bed of particulate material with a treating gas includes a downwardly converging bin, hot gas distributors and a cooling gas distributor. The method whereby the apparatus is used as a reactor dryer to treat particulate sponge iron is also disclosed.