CFD Modeling of the Refining Process in an Industry-Scale Electric Arc Furnace: Analysis of Decarburization Efficiency and Model Validation

In EAF refining operation the molten steel is exposed to chemical-physical process that modify bath temperature and composition so that the desired steel grades are obtained. This process is driven by gas velocity, temperature and composition gradients which determine the reaction rates. Increased mixing enhances reactions and, consequently, reduces refining time and energy consumption. A CFD platform is used to compute the impact of oxygen injection on de-carburization reactions during refining. The model is validated against bath composition and temperature from industrial trials. CFD results are then used to optimize refining driven by oxygen injected at various rates.

Orlando Ugarte | Purdue University Northwest
 

Neel Busa | Purdue University Northwest
 

Bikram Konar | EVRAZ North America
 

Sathvika Kottapalli | Purdue University Northwest
 

Tyamo Okosun | Purdue University Northwest
 

Chenn Zhou | Purdue University Northwest