Visualization of Slag Data for Efficient Monitoring and Improvement of Steelmaking Slag Operation in Electric Arc Furnaces, with a Focus on MgO Saturation

Frequent slag sampling and analysis is still the most common method used to investigate and improve slag operation in electric arc furnaces (EAFs) for low-alloyed carbon steelmaking. An MgO saturation diagram for EAF slags was derived from phase equilibrium calculations in the system CaO–MgO–FeO–SiO2–5%Al2O3 to provide monitoring and interpretation of the slag data with respect to control of MgO saturation, FeO reduction, dissolution from the MgO-based refractory lining, and unusual losses of repair mixes. Examples from 14 industrial EAFs are given.