Process Analysis of Charge Materials and Operating Behavior in EAF Steelmaking

Kurzbeschreibung:

The electric arc furnace (EAF) is expected to play a key role in future low-carbon steel production by enabling the use of direct reduced iron (DRI) alongside conventional scrap. As the share of DRI and hydrogen-based DRI (H-DRI) increases, new challenges arise regarding melting behavior, slag formation, process stability, and steel quality. A detailed understanding of these phenomena is essential for developing efficient and flexible EAF operating practices. 

This research focuses on the metallurgical fundamentals of EAF steelmaking with particular emphasis on alternative iron-bearing feed materials, slag metallurgy, and process optimization. A laboratory-scale multi-cathode furnace is being adapted for EAF operation to investigate the influence of different charge materials and operating conditions on melting behavior, energy efficiency, and refining reactions. 

In addition, the project examines foaming slag formation, as well as the distribution and behavior of sulfur, phosphorus, and nitrogen during the melting process. The generated knowledge will contribute to the development of optimized EAF operating strategies for sustainable steel production and support the efficient integration of DRI-based ironmaking routes into future electric steelmaking.