Carbon is an important element in steel production, both during the manufacturing processes as well as in determining the mechanical properties of the final product. While carbon can be introduced into the melt using various methods through the introduction of several carbon rich products, one of the most effective methods is by including a high carbon iron material in the charge. This can take the form of Skulls, Tundish, Beach Iron, Pig Iron Ingots and Pig Iron Chips.
Mineral-Loy distributes a range of high carbon material derived from the production of HPI (High Purity Iron) and blast furnace iron. This material is guaranteed to be low in residual elements and high in carbon content, as such it makes a very desirable charge material in oxygen steel-making processes. A high carbon content is essential for refining of the melt during the ‘boil’, as well as decreasing the electrical energy required to maintain the temperature of the melt. The high density of these materials (and more importantly the high packing density) results in higher loading density’s per charge, reducing power off times of the furnace during back-charging which results in faster furnace cycle times and decreased electricity consumption as less heat is lost during charging phases.
The low residual element content of these materials is also very beneficial in diluting any tramp elements introduced in the steel charge, such as copper, chrome and manganese. While some of these elements are essential in the final product they need to be maintained within very narrow limits for the various grades of steels and need to be introduced at specific stages of the heat for maximum effectiveness.
This material can be handled by any loading equipment commonly used at steelworks such as magnets and grabs, thereby requiring no changes in the charge preparation areas.
Please contact Mineral-Loy should you require any high carbon iron materials.