Thermodynamic Modelling of an Electric Arc Furnace

A thermodynamic model was developed to predict the effect of post combustion, preheating and the use of alternative iron units on the energy usage of a typical electric arc furnace producing long products. Results from the model were compared to data obtained from an operating plant. Global energy efficiencies were developed from base cases and used to predict energy usage for a wide range of different parameters. The model predicts that post combustion combined with preheating should reduce total energy consumption by more than 10%.