Handbook Of Ferroalloys

This chapter examines the theory and technology applied for the production of manganese ferroalloys. The focus is on smelting of ferromanganese, silicomanganese, and manganese metal in electric furnaces with different process types. The properties of manganese as well as its major compounds, minerals, and ores are presented. Agglomeration methods used to prepare ores for smelting are described. Refining techniques for low-carbon manganese ferroalloys are discussed, and postprocessing operations are outlined, together with tapping and casting processes. Additionally, the energy balance of manganese alloys smelting is outlined, and some potential hazards of the smelting technology are discussed, together with their preventive actions.

The metallurgical processing of ferroalloys is based on a coherent combination of many scientific fields, which are briefly outlined in this chapter. The metal’s recovery process is based on reduction reactions, where metallurgical thermodynamics and kinetics are of a paramount importance. This includes the knowledge and ability to calculate, monitor, and change the formation of solutions and phases, rate of the reactions, and handling of reaction products in the most efficient way. In parallel, theoretical and engineering data on heat, mass, momentum, and charge transfer are critical for the development and design of ferroalloy production processes and furnaces. The chapter also discusses the basics of the structure and properties of metal and oxide (slag) when melted together with carbon reductants.

This chapter examines the theory and technology of the production of silicon and ferrosilicon alloys. An overview of silica raw materials, silica transformations, and carbon reductants for smelting is presented together with an exploration of the thermodynamics of silicon reduction and the formation of silicon carbide. For industrial practice, the results of furnace operation and zones formation are discussed, along with the main parameters required to ensure a smooth furnace operation. Finally, post–tap hole processes (refining and casting) and environmental issues (fumes and dust formation and handling) are described.

This handbook gathers, reviews and concisely presents the core principles and varied technology involved in processing ferroalloys. Background content in thermodynamics, kinetics, heat and mass transfer is accompanied by an overview of electrical furnaces theory and practice as well as sustainability issues. The work includes detailed coverage of the major technologies of ferrosilicon, ferronickel, ferromolybdenum, ferrotungsten, ferrovanadium, ferromanganese and lesser known minor ferroalloys. Distilling the results of many years' experience in ferroalloys, Michael Gasik has assembled contributions from the worlds' foremost experts. The work is therefore a unique source for scientists, engineers and university students, exploring in depth an area which is one of the most versatile and increasingly used fields within modern metallurgy. All-in-one source for the major ferroalloys and their metallurgical processing technologies, cutting research time otherwise spent digging through old handbooks or review articles. In-depth discussion of the C, Si, Al-reduction, groups II-VIII of the periodic table, supporting analysis of metallurgical processing. Contemporary coverage includes environment and energy saving issues.

This introductory chapter describes the importance of ferroalloys in modern steelmaking and the benefits of applying ferroalloys instead of pure alloying elements. The idea, scope, and structure of the book are outlined.

The word ferroalloy refers to an alloy of iron containing a significant proportion of one or more other elements like silicon, manganese, chromium, aluminum, or titanium. The main applications of ferroalloys occur in the steelmaking process. They are added to steel to improve properties like strength, ductility, and fatigue or corrosion resistance. Additionally, ferroalloys can have several other tasks, such as in refining, deoxidation, modification, and control of nonmetallic inclusions and precipitates. The production and role of ferroalloys are briefly introduced, both from a historical perspective and in light of current and future prospects. Examples of production figures, producers, and markets are presented. Recent developments and main drivers in ferroalloys processing, including energy saving, environmental issues, primary and secondary raw materials resources, and development trends in technology, are briefly discussed.

This book outlines the physical and chemical foundations of high-temperature processes for producing silicon, manganese and chromium ferroalloys, alloys of molybdenum, vanadium, titanium, alkaline earth and rare earth metals, niobium, zirconium, aluminum, boron, nickel, cobalt, phosphorus, selenium and tellurium, iron-carbon alloys by carbon, silicone and aluminothermic methods. The chapters introduce the industrial production technologies of these groups of ferroalloys, the characteristics of charge materials, and the technological parameters of the melting processes. A description of ferroalloy furnaces is given in detail. Topics such as waste recycling, fines agglomeration technologies, and environmental issues are considered.