Energy efficient solutions for EAF steelmaking

Abstract

Purpose: To review an advanced solutions to improve the energy efficiency of electric arc furnace (EAF), and presentation of own new efficient low-cost solutions with regard to needs of electrometallurgical complex of Ukraine. Design/methodology/approach: simulation and industrial experiment is used. The patter ns and parameters of heat and mass transfer processes, hydromechanics in a steelmaking bath of an ar c furnace, thermal operation of water -cooled elements and gas dynamics in EAF workspace, are the subject scope of the paper . Findings: Energy-efficient solutions for steelmaking: bath geometry , design featur es of water -cooled elements (WCE), distributed aspiration system, and the mid-temperatur e scrap preheating. Research limitations/implications: Influence of the bath depth on heat and mass transfer and heat loss by radiation; influence of the spatial structure of WCE on heat loss by radiation; the dispersion of aspiration on the amount of fugitive emissions through electrode gaps are established. Practical implications: Grounds to improve EAF melting space, water -cooled elements, aspiration system and utilization of energy loss are obtained. Use of the set of solutions in 120-ton EAF can reduce energy consumption by 56-68 kWh/ton. Originality/value: The new concepts of deep steelmaking bath, WCE with spatial structure and system of dispersed aspiration of the EAF are elaborated.