Optimisation and prediction model of hot metal desulphurisation reagent consumption

Abstract

Sulphur in steel, which is deleterious to its mechanical properties, is reduced in hot metal by external desulphurisation using calcium carbide (CaC₂) based reagent at JSW Steel. With an aim of optimising the consumption of this reagent for desulphurisation, sulphur mapping was carried out at different locations, from hot metal production to steel casting, to establish optimum S levels at different stages of hot metal and steel treatment. The performance analysis of plant data for desulphurisation of hot metal shows that the degree of desulphurisation (DS) and hot metal temperature had significant impact on the consumption of reagent. Optimum consumption of desulphurisation reagent is achieved by maintaining hot metal temperature above 1350°C and the DS less than 80%. A computer based model using multiple linear regression techniques has been developed to guide the operator to ensure optimum consumption of desulphurisation reagent.