Based on physical and thermodynamical dependences a model of the vacuum circulation process for steel de-carburization was developed. It comprises the main process parts and gives the ability to simulate the behaviour of all important process values with good accuracy. The model was verified by the comparison of simulation results to measured process data. During model development the process knowledge was improved and the process parameters were identified. The process model can be used for the following applications: 1) Design and operation of vacuum circulation plants can be optimized with respect to a minimum decarburization time, or the decrease of the final carbon content which can be reached after given time. For example the influence of the snorkel diameter, the lift gas flow rate and the suction speed of the vacuum pumps can be investigated by simulation calculations and parameter studies. By this, expensive plant trials can be substituted or at least prepared carefully. 2) A simplified version of the model can be used for online applications in a process control system. Based on it the decarburization behaviour and its influence on temperature and composition of the heat can be predicted. This is for example necessary for dynamic treatment scheduling.
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