Zaitsev V. Electroslag technology of bimetallic steel-copper ingots for bottom electrodes of an electric arc furnace.

The dissertation is devoted to researching the possibilities of electroslag remelting according to the double - circuit diagram (ESR TС) to obtain the connection of dissimilar metals for the production of steel-copper billets of bottom electrodes - anodes of arc steel furnaces (DC EAF). It contains a detailed analysis of manufacturing steel-copper anodes of the rod type and the possibility of electroslag technologies in providing a high-quality bimetallic connection. The pilot equipment based on the ESR furnace with a change of electrodes and two circuits of independent high current loops of the consumable electrode and the non-consumable electrode – the current-supplying mould is offered. The mathematical model of ESR TC of steel and copper electrodes is proposed, and target technological parameters (electric power, remelting speed and time limits of stages of receiving bimetallic steel-copper ingot) were found. Experimental heats were made, and the structure and service characteristics of the transition zone between steel and copper, including electrical resistance in the temperature range up to the operating temperature of 500°C, have been studied. As a result of determining the features of steel-copper ingots forming by electroslag remelting according to the two-circuit scheme with the change of electrodes while remelting process and technological recommendations for their implementation are outlined. A pilot set of anodes made from ESR TC steel-copper ingots for DC EAF with a capacity of up to 12 tons was tested in industrial conditions. The efficiency of anodes is twice higher than the efficiency of anodes from other steel-copper blanks.