EAF Optimization Efficient Use of Energy in the Electric Arc Furnace

摘要

Steel shops around the world are increasingly turning to chemical energy to both reduce their energy costs and to improve productivity. Effective use of oxygen can significantly lower overall costs. However, making truly efficient use of chemical energy can be quite difficult. Too much oxygen can actually increase the total energy requirement. Careful analysis of heat data and controlled testing are necessary to define the optimum procedures for the use of oxygen and the production of chemical energy. Proper timing of the injection and the chemistry of the heat will dramatically change the total energy efficiency and costs for producing steel. Case studies at steel shops in both Europe and North America reveal how analysis of heat and test data can put cash on the bottom line. Very little or even no capital investment is required to take advantage of the procedural changes developed by this type of study. Efficient use of chemical energy is critical to the success of every steel shop.