Chapter 3.3 Application of Slag Engineering Fundamentals to Continuous Steelmaking

This chapter presents an example of the practical use of process metallurgy fundamentals in determining the optimum process conditions for a novel continuous steelmaking technology. In this technology, direct reduced iron is continuously melted and refined in a stationary electric arc furnace. The major challenges against continuous operation of the electric furnace were identified to be minimizing the corrosion of the refractory in order to achieve uninterrupted operation, and at the same time satisfying the oxidizing conditions required for sufficient decarburization. It will be discussed how these process requirements were addressed through proper theoretical analysis, the use of prior knowledge, bench-scale experiments, and pilot trials.