Development of a Methodology for Selecting Optimum Asymmetric Arc Combustion Modes in Ladle-Furnace Installations under Different Argon Purging Regimes

The paper develops a methodology for selecting optimum asymmetric arc combustion modes in ladle-furnace plants at different argon purging modes. The previously developed algorithm for adapting the electric mode of ladle-furnaces (LF) to the argon blast intensity using the slag factor is briefly discussed. It is noted that for this algorithm to operate it is necessary to form a set of operating curves that would provide for timely shortening of electric arc lengths depending on the influence degree of the liquid metal mirror on specific phases. It is significant that the issue of selecting the optimal values of the operating parameter settings for a given set of operating curves is not covered in sufficient detail in modern scientific and technical literature. In this connection, main configuration variants of single and double-position LFs according to the location of blow-off plugs and emergency tuyeres have been considered. For each variant criteria that allow carrying out iterative search for optimal values of control parameter settings have been generated. Experience in practical application of new optimization criteria at existing LFs operating on the territory of metallurgical enterprises of the Russian Federation is described. Conclusions are made about the technical effect achieved by the results of the work with reference to actual production figures.