SVC Control Upgrade Enhances EAF Operations at Nucor Steel Memphis Inc.

A Static VAR Compensator (SVC) regulates voltage stability, improves power factor, and compensates for reactive power in electrical systems. Electric Arc Furnaces (EAFs), known for causing voltage fluctuations and harmonic distortion, greatly benefit from SVC integration. To address obsolescence, enhance reliability, and secure better service support, Nucor Memphis upgraded the SVC control system in its Meltshop. This modernization not only met these objectives but also delivered significant operational improvements, including reduced short-circuit and overload events, lower electrode consumption, and increased furnace uptime through minimized downtime. These enhancements were achieved while maintaining voltage stability, flicker mitigation, power factor correction, and existing harmonic distortion levels. By adopting advanced technology, Nucor mitigates risks, ensures continuous service availability, and enables future scalability, including seamless integration with AMI PX3 Electrode Regulation System and Smart Furnace.

Authors:

Eric Martinez | AMI Automation
 

Elizabeth Hayes | Nucor Steel Memphis Inc.
 

Victor Hinojosa | Nucor Steel Memphis, Inc.
 

Bernardo Sainz Barajas | AMI Automation
 

Jose Luis Pepe | AMI Automation
 

Jorge Fernández | AMI Automation
 

Session Chairs:

Carlo Travaglini | Gerdau Long Steel North America
 

Alex England | Element Biocarbon