Parameter optimization of aluminum wire feeding process during LF refining

In LF refining process of Al-killed steel,the accurate control of acid-dissolved aluminum content and oxygen content and the less consumption of aluminum wire provide substantial economic value to steel plants. A one-dimensional heat transfer mathematical model was proposed to describe the melting behavior of aluminum wire injected into molten steel during LF refining process.The model was validated by experimental results from previous literatures. The effects of wire speed,wire diameter and bath superheat on the melting of aluminum wire were investigated by using the model. It is found that wire speed and bath superheat seem to be the most important factors affecting the travelled distance of aluminum wire. In addition,large wire diameter and small wire speed are recommended under high bath superheat.