Improving Deep Arc Reduction Parameters for Useful Elements in the Extra-Furnace Processing of Iron–Carbon Melts

Abstract

The advantages of deep arc reduction (DAR) technology are demonstrated as applied to converting useful elements inherent in metallurgical wastes into iron–carbon melts for their refining, deoxidative alloying, homogenization and heating. The proposed method can be used in mini- and microplants as an alternative to the traditional methods of out-of-furnace processing. The effect of the design and composition of the combined iron-graphite electrode (CIGE) as a part of ore reduction blocks intended for the DAR recovery of useful elements exerted on the DAR efficiency has been studied. The values of current density, CIGE diameter, number and diameter of technological holes in its steel tube that are acceptable for the successful implementation of the process have been established. The effect of electrode mixture composition on the electrical resistivity thereof and the rate of CIGE consumption is demonstrated. Technological recommendations are proposed for optimizing the parameters under study.