ESR (Electroslag Refining) Technology in Australia - Laboratory Research and Industrial Development,
Abstract
Scientific and technical work undertaken jointly by MRL and the Commonwealth Steel Company, during a period of technology transfer on electroslag refining (ESR) of premium quality steels for ordnance, is reviewed in detail. Investigations used a small experimental laboratory ESR unit, and a large commercial unit manufactured by Consarc. Melting temperatures of some multi-component local slags were found to be significantly higher than reported nominal values. It was found that variations in slag composition during remelting could be assessed visually. Deoxidation practice, especially the type of deoxidant, had a greater influence than slag composition on levels of residual silicon and aluminum and on cleanliness of the final ingot steel. Silica-rich slags gave unsatisfactory ingot surfaces with higher melting point steels, while increasing slag calcium levels or introducing rare earth elements improved the modification of inclusions. Forced dry air circulation above the slag layer greatly enhanced sulphur removal from the steel. Mechanical properties, including tensile, notched impact, fracture toughness and fatigue, of as-cast ESR steel compared favourably with transverse values in forged electric furnace steel.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jul 01, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA147776
Entities
People
- G. M. Weston
- J. C. Ritter
Organizations
- Defence Science and Technology Group