Use of Computational Thermodynamic Calculations in Studying the Slag/Steel Equilibrium during Vacuum Degassing

Abstract The effectiveness of a ladle refining process for production of tool steel with focus on the top slag is studied using computational thermodynamic calculations. The theoretical assessment was based on compositional data of steel and slag samples collected during trials in a plant equipped with a 65‐t EAF, a ladle furnace and a vacuum degasser. The calculation of slag‐metal equilibrium during ladle treatment was performed for top slag excluding (Case A) and including (Case B) slag carryover and deoxidation products. The predictions showed that slag carryover and deoxidation products in the ladle significantly affect the composition of the top slag. Thus, these conditions must be taken into consideration when predicting the actual top slag composition. It was also found that it is possible to predict the final aluminium and sulphur content in steel based on the same calculation approach.