GB1452313A - Method for enhancing the reduction of ores and oxides and the melting of metals using magnetic forces - Google Patents

Abstract

1452313 Melting of metals; reduction of oxides S PROLER 2 Nov 1973 [14 Nov 1972] 51104/73 Heading C7D Metal-containing particles having magnetic characteristics are incorporated in molten metal streams by subjecting the stream to a magnetic field in the area where the charge is added in order to force the particles beneath the surface of the stream and aid mixing. The process is particularly applicable to the melting of particulate iron or steel scrap in a stream of molten iron, or to the reduction of iron oxide or oxide ore dust in such a stream. Alternatively, the iron oxide may be added in order to decarburize molten iron in the production of steels. The magnetic field may be provided by electro or permanent magnets which may also form part of inductive conveyers for the metal stream. In one embodiment, Fig. 2, an induction conveyer 7 with its laminated core 3 and windings (5), Fig. 6, (not shown) provides for movement of a metal stream between outlet 19a and inlet 19b of metal bath (13) contained in a furnace (11), Fig. 1, (not shown), thus providing a closed loop continuous circulation system for the metal. Particulate charge is distributed over the trough of the induction conveyer through charging deflectors 23 and slag is removed at 15, while the melt may be tapped from bath (13). In alternative embodiments, (2) induction channels and furnaces may be combined, Fig. 3, (not shown); the metal stream may descend a trough under gravity while the magnetic force is applied. Fig. 4, (not shown), the stream may be obtained in a bath by withdrawal of metal through a tapping hole, Fig. 5 (not shown), and the base of the inductor channel may be stepped to provide further turbulence, Fig. 7 (not shown).