Process optimization of bottom-blown argon for 130t ladle furnace

ABSTRACT A quarter scale water model experiment is employed to investigate the effect of single and double porous plug placement and blowing flow rates on the mixing time, slag eye area, and slag entrapment depth. As a result, when the blowing flow rate is greater than 180 L min–1, the blowing effect of double blowing plugs is better than that of single blowing plugs. The open eye area and slag entrapment depth in the double blow plug arrangement are smaller than that in the single blow plug arrangement. In general, the ladle refining effect is better when the blow plug is arranged at 0.4R position and the angle between the two blow plugs is 120°. The final recommended argon blowing process is 240–300 L min–1 for the heating and alloying process and 60–120 L min–1 for the soft blowing process, respectively.