Abstract
Trials were conducted on Co-Steel Lasco's electric arc furnace (EAF) to evaluate the effect of oxyfuel burner ratio changes on furnace energy efficiency and productivity. Carefully controlled trials with the collection of numerous process and sample data over 331 heats provided statistically significant results. The oxygen available for post-combustion in the furnace was increased by 19%. As the burners were operating at their maximum oxygen constraint, this was achieved by decreasing the natural gas consumption by 43%. Results of this study indicate that decreases in terms of specific electrical energy consumption (4·0%), power on time (5·0%), and tap to tap time (4·5%) were realised. Slag chemistry, electrode consumption, and yield were not affected. Measurement data support the finding that more heat was transferred into the steel with the post-combustion burners: a flat bath was achieved earlier; high bath temperatures were reached more quickly; power on time was reduced, leading to reduced electrical energy consumption. Analysis suggests that furnace thermal energy losses were reduced by less air inleakage, less incomplete methane combustion, and earlier achievement of foamy slag conditions.
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