Improved Methodology for Optimising the Electrical Operation of a Shaft-Type Arc Steelmaking Furnace

Abstract

The paper develops an improved multi-criteria optimization methodology for electric mode of shaft type electric arc steelmaking furnace. A new mathematical model is proposed for electric arc furnace circuit with simplified regulator, which allows calculating new modes with higher speed in comparison with the classical model. Taking into account the past research experience, the steps allowing implementing the proposed methodology in practice are highlighted. Criteria are formulated and that make it possible to determine the most optimal combinations of control parameter settings to achieve an increase in the furnace energy efficiency. The results of experimental research based on the existing shaft-type arc steel-making furnace SF-125 are presented. The developed methodology effectiveness is evaluated by comparing the energy performance of SF-125 before and after changing the electric modes. A brief assessment is given on the possibility of applying the new methodology to other furnaces of different capacities and classes.