Influence of process parameters on reduction contours during production of ferrochromium in submerged arc furnace

Contours of iso-reduction lines in the submerged arc furnace producing ferrochromium were constructed using a mathematical model based on the temperature profile inside the furnace and the kinetics of reduction of chromite ores. The location and the contours of the iso-reduction lines are significantly influenced by the temperature profile in the furnace. From the model, it is found that similar to 27% of the furnace volume is used for the reduction of the ore. The contours are significantly influenced by the degree of pre-reduction of the ore charged into the furnace. The iso-reduction lines can be used for enhancing the efficiency of the process and for better control of the operation exploiting options such as intelligent distribution of charge materials over the charge bed.