Determination of Inclusion Characteristics in the Asea-SKF Process using the Modified Spark-Induced OES Technique as a Complement in Studying the Influence of Top Slag Composition

Abstract

The spark-induced modified optical emission spectroscopy (OES) technique developed by Ovako Steel makes it possible to rapidly determine inclusion characteristics in steel samples. In earlier investigations using the modified spark-induced OES technique for steel samples taken from billets, predicted oxygen contents agreed well with results from conventional melt extraction analyses. In this investigation, samples taken during ladle treatment in an ASEA-SKF ladle furnace were analysed using the modified OES technique. When comparing the results with inclusion characteristics determined by conventional analysis, similar trends were found. Plant trials were also carried out where three different top slag compositions were used. The purpose was to evaluate if the modified OES technique can be used to study the effect of changes in the refining operation on inclusion characteristics. Results indicated that the modified OES technique could be used to determine the effect of a changed slag composition on the inclusion characteristics in the steel. Since the modified OES method provides rapid feedback of inclusion characteristics, it has the potential of being used for faster optimisation of ladle refining operations.