Swerim AB

We want to be more! The research institute Swerim conducts needs-based industrial research and development concerning metals and their route from raw material to finished product. Swerim has 200 co-workers in two locations in Sweden - Luleå and Stockholm. Our vision is a fossil-free and circular industry.

Master Thesis: Controllability of EAFs and measurement of slag foaming – A prestudy

1 Place

Slag foaming is a critical parameter for productivity and energy efficiency in Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steelmaking. Optimizing slag foaming is important as it increases productivity, conserves electricity, protects the EAF lining, reduces electrode consumption, and prevents oxidation of melt. For efficient energy transfer from the arcs, they should be completely covered with slag. As the length of the arcs is proportional to the applied voltage, higher slag foaming thickness (SFT) allows for higher power operation and thereby increased productivity.
 
This study aims a survey on controllability of slag foaming in EAFs and a literature review on latest developments in experimental methods. This as the controlling SFT in an EAF is challenging due to the harsh environment internally and nearby. Accurate measurement of parameters is an important part of control. Several measurement methods attempted to date have not proven successful for SFT.


Figure 1. Sketch of an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) with slag foaming.

Goal of the study 
Introduce a method to assess the 'level of control' in EAFs across Sweden and Finland, learn from other industries and study the possibility to apply their measuring techniques for EAF environment and to update about the latest experimental methods applicable for EAF measurements. There is a possibility to visit one EAF site and the results will be presented by the student to the partners join the project.
 
Qualifications
A student in Metallurgy, Chemical/Mechanical Engineering, or Physics. Knowledge in experimental methods would be an advantage in carrying out the study.

Project time
The project is intended for a master thesis (30hp). The start date is January 2025 or can be mutually decided through negotiations.
 
Further information
This project is intended to be performed at Swerim in Luleå. Swerim rewards the student with 50 000 SEK for an approved master thesis (30hp).

Contacts
You are welcome to contact

Application
Apply by using the application function below. The application can be written in English or Swedish. Latest date for application is November 10, 2024.You will receive a confirmation that Swerim has received your application. Please note that we fill the position as soon as we find a suitable applicant, which means we can fill the position before the deadline

Application


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