Method for melting steel

US4098603A · kind A · utility

Assignee

• Demag A.G. · DE

Inventors

• Haye Roth · Breitscheid, DE
• Gero Rath · Mülheim, DE

Key dates

• Filing date: Sep 13, 1976
• Grant date: Jul 4, 1978
• Expiry date: Sep 13, 1996

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y02P10/20
• WIPO field: Thermal processes and apparatus
• WIPO sector: Mechanical engineering

Abstract

A process and apparatus are provided for producing steel of more uniform grade on a continuous basis by maintaining a comparatively thick slag layer and a larger quantity of molten steel product in an electric arc resistance furnace. This is achieved partially by including in or combined with a quantity of the charge a quantity of iron sponge, or by using a pre-reduced and/or agglomerated or otherwise pelleted ore charge. By using a charge which is comprised of comparatively small-sized particles in combination with a thick slag layer, the charge is readily assimilated into the thick slag layer. This reduces the exposure of large particle size charge material surfaces to hot spots caused by arcing at the charge-slag interface. The comparatively thick slag layer and the continuously maintained large metal bath balance and assimilate additional charge quantities to produce an ultimately more uniform product. Because of the thick slag layer, the upper surface thereof can be maintained comparatively cooler for receiving the charge, thus again reducing localized hot spots at the slag-charge interface. These factors reduce deterioration of the furnace lining and inlet feed surfaces, as w…