Abstract
Basic oxygen furnaces (BOFs) are widely used to produce steel from hot metal. The process typically has limited automation which leads to sub-optimal operation. Economically optimal operation can be potentially achieved by using a dynamic optimization framework to provide operators the best combination of input trajectories. In this paper, a first-principles based dynamic model for the BOF that can be used within the dynamic optimization routine is described. The model extends a previous work by incorporating a model for slag formation and energy balances. In this new version of the mathematical model, the submodel for the decarburization in the emulsion zone is also modified to account for recent findings, and an algebraic equation for the calculation of the calcium oxide saturation in slag is developed. The dynamic model is then used to simulate the operation of two distinct furnaces. It was found that the prediction accuracy of the developed model is significantly superior to its predecessor and the number of process variables that it is able to predict is also higher.
Highlights
The Basic Oxygen Furance (BOF) is responsible for approximately 70% of the steel production worldwide [1]
Scrap metal and hot metal are charged to the BOF, and an oxygen jet at supersonic speed is injected from the top through the lance onto the surface of the metal bath
These results indicate that Equation (47) approximates the kinetics of droplet decarburization reasonably well and can be used within the BOF model to describe the kinetics of decarburization in the emulsion zone
Summary
The Basic Oxygen Furance (BOF) is responsible for approximately 70% of the steel production worldwide [1]. Sarkar et al [8] developed a dynamic model for the BOF They assumed that the refining reactions take place only in the emulsion zone, between elements dissolved in the droplets and FeO in slag. The model does not include an energy balance and temperature is assumed to increase linearly during the blow Another dynamic model for the basic oxygen furnace was developed by Lytvynyuk et al [7]. A very comprehensive, first-priniciple dynamic model for the kinetics of decarburization in the BOF was developed by Dogan et al [6] Their model accounts for carbon oxidation in two zones: The emulsion and the impact zone (Figure 1). The resulting framework is used to simulate the Cicutti data [13] as well as 71 heats for the BOF of an industrial collaborator (Plant A)
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
