Gas Dynamics in the Working Space of a Modern Electric-Arc Steelmaking Furnace

Results are presented from an analysis of the motion of gas flows created by fuel-burning devices in existing electric-arc steelmaking furnaces and recommendations are made on how to efficiently arrange this equipment in the furnace. Controlled annular motion of the aerodynamic flows in the part of the working space between the furnace wall and the electrodes increases convective heat transfer to the cold solid charge, forms a reliable and uniform slag crust on the water-cooled wall, and alleviates the deposition of process dust on the electrodes. A numerical study is performed using the SolidWorks Flow Simulation program and boundary conditions that reflect the actual operating conditions in the furnaces.