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By Eduardo Amado Marconato

No final do primeiro trimestre de 2012, a Usiminas iniciou a operação da nova linha de laminação de tiras a quente (LTQ2) na Usina de Cubatão visando fornecer bobinas de aço para a indústria automotiva, do petróleo e gás, máquinas agrícolas, aplicações diversas de aços estruturais, entre outras. A busca pela excelência na qualidade dos produtos e melhoria contínua nos processos estende-se a todos os setores da Usiminas como fatores de manutenção e ampliação da competitividade no mercado. Um dos principais itens que impactam o desempenho da produção na laminação a quente é o consumo de combustíveis para reaquecimento das placas até a temperatura adequada ao processo na linha de laminação. Desde o start up do laminador, o desempenho do forno de reaquecimento vem apresentando evolução expressiva em relação ao consumo de combustíveis. Essa evolução deveu-se especialmente à otimização dos parâmetros de controle e às melhorias alcançadas no processo. Foi alcançada uma redução média superior a 25% no consumo específico de combustível, quando comparado ao início da produção comercial do laminador.

Aug 16, 2017

By Flanelson Maciel Monteiro, Marcondes Mendes de Souza, Mauro Froes Meyer

This research is based on a bibliographical review of a field work that was done in the municipality of Parelhas / RN. The area explored, in turn, is known for its richness of mineral resources that are present in pegmatitic rocks. The general objective of this research is to characterize the main properties of the pegmatites and quartzite, in order to verify the heterogeneity of the elements, to raise a possible viability of extraction for economic purposes. The quartzite also presents a siliceous chemical composition. This rock is a source of bricks and silica refractories used in the steel industry and for the preparation of the blast furnace bed, ornamental rock used in different ways (rustic, carved, polished, among others). However, this research resulted in preliminary data, but it would be interesting to be more detailed in order to evaluate the economic viability of these rocks.

Oct 3, 2019

By André Tarcizo de Oliveira Vieira

A Companhia Siderúrgica Nacional (CSN) gera diversos resíduos metálicos de diferentes granulometrias que não podem ser utilizadas na rota natural da produção do aço. Este trabalho tem como objetivo descrever o pioneirismo do desenvolvimento e a implantação de melhorias no sistema de adição em carros torpedos que permitiram a utilização nobre de resíduos ricos em ferro, demonstrando a viabilidade técnica assim como a viabilidade econômica. A redução do consumo de energia é outro argumento para reciclagem de resíduos, neste contexto a CSN tem aumentado o interesse pela reciclagem devido a necessidade de diminuição de consumos energéticos e da consciência ambiental. O processo desenvolvido demonstrou a viabilidade da utilização de metálicos de pequena granulometria pela adição em carros torpedo, aumentando a oferta de ferro gusa líquido para os convertedores da CSN.

Aug 2, 2018

By Débora Cardoso de Oliveira Silveira, Jean-Christophe Huber, Hamzeh Hamadeh, Kateryna Pastel, Guillaume Brosse

The dynamic behavior of oxygen gas flow, determined by the lance nozzle and blow pattern, is a key factor for determining jet efficiency in BOF Steelmaking. The present work compares the performances of Laval and parabolic nozzles with the aid of the Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD). The Method of Characteristics (MOC) was applied to design a minimum length parabolic nozzle. The results show that the parabolic nozzle generates more uniform and stable jet, with 2% longer potential core and supersonic length and less shock waves. For the parabolic nozzle, the pressure nearby the nozzle wall is higher, which can protect this region from reverse flow of converter gases and offer longer life for the lance tip. Likewise, the flow rate variations would affect less this nozzle. In addition, the nozzle wear was investigated, and the parabolic nozzle has proven relatively less sensitivity to the presence of this deformity.

Oct 1, 2019

By Daniel Antonio Kapper Fabricio

Laboratórios de ensaios têm buscado implementar Sistemas de Gestão da Qualidade baseados na norma ABNT NBR ISO/IEC 17025 e procurado a acreditação de seus ensaios. A norma ASTM E517 estabelece um método de ensaio para a determinação do índice de anisotropia plástica de metais laminados, um importante parâmetro em processos de conformação mecânica por estampagem. Atualmente nenhum laboratório é acreditado pelo Inmetro na realização desse ensaio. Assim, o Laboratório de Metalurgia Física (LAMEF) da UFRGS optou por aumentar seu escopo de acreditação para abranger esse ensaio. O objetivo do trabalho é apresentar as adequações gerenciais e técnicas ao Sistema da Qualidade existente para a extensão de escopo, assim como as não conformidades encontradas e os pontos fortes para obtenção da acreditação junto ao Inmetro.

Aug 7, 2018

By José Divo Bressan

Present work examines material surface damage by cavitation erosion of metals or the wear phenomenon from water bubbles collapse near the metallic surface. Material surface damage by cavitation erosion is due to wear mechanisms of liquid micro-jets impingement and shock waves. Experimental cavitation in tap water was investigated, using the proposed new design of compact rotating disk equipment. In this device, a rotating disk with cavitation inducers and specimens fixed on it ran in tap water to provide cavitating flow at constant high speed of 47.9 m/s similar to service conditions in pumps and propellers. Two types of cavitation inducers in the rotating disk were investigated: through-holes and pins. Carburized cast iron, aluminum, brass and bronze specimens were tested in this device. The cavitation damage mechanisms were observed by scanning electron microscope. Surface damage in the specimens was measured by mass loss and plotted in graphs of mass loss versus running time. After 25 hours testing, the specimens surface showed pitting formation and mass loss. All specimens presented surface damage: pit diameter size was about 100 or 150 to 300 micron. In aluminum specimen, damages by burned pit formation and plastic deformation could be seen, however, the mass loss was lower than the expected, possibly due to alumina film formation. Present equipment had quite good test reproducibility when compared with results from literature.

Jul 31, 2018

By Daniel Suarez

Over the last few years the mining industry has continuously been facing increases in capital and operating costs for new projects; plant expansions and also significant increases in the operating costs of existing plants. To counteract such trend the industry is seeking technologies such as the Vertimill as an option to lower the operating costs of grinding circuits. The benefits the Vertimill offers in terms of lower energy consumption and lower media consumption are well established and documented; such benefits can significantly improve the viability of a new project, plant expansions or upgrading grinding mills that need to be replaced. The paper briefly describes the operation of the Vertimill, recent regrind applications in processing Iron ores where the impact of lower energy and grinding media consumption is very significant because of the large tonnages involved, and also applications as a tertiary and secondary grinding stages of grinding circuits. The paper also highlight the expected role the Vertimill can play in secondary applications and the expected impact on the overall economics of the project.

Aug 1, 2018

By Renan Gurgel Pinho

O objetivo deste trabalho é investigar a esferoidização do aço SAE 1080 e os respectivos efeitos da variação do tempo na microestrutura final e na dureza do material. O aço SAE 1080 foi submetido a recozimento isotérmico, por tempo prolongado, utilizando-se 90, 100 e 120 horas de aquecimento à temperatura de 715ºC. Os resultados mostraram que é possível esferoidizar o aço SAE 1080 nos respectivos tempos escolhidos e perceber aumento da quantidade de esferoiditas, assim como decréscimo na dureza.

Aug 16, 2017

By Ernst Lindemann

The SMS group has developed the ultrasound technology “HD scan” for inspection of the internal quality of as-cast products. This method of sample analysis requires less preparation work and is safer than the current, most common technique of etching and/or sulphur printing. Furthermore, this technology offers a three-dimensional view into the sample of the cast product and thus more representative information for a better quality evaluation. The internal quality evaluation can be performed automatically and objectively by software based on clear statistical methods. A quantitative centerline segregation rating can be assigned to each sample, based on the size and distribution of segregates detected by the unit. Internal crack statistic (length, position, orientation, etc.) and narrow side profile can also be measured. Grain macrostructure can also be visualized which allows for a potential optimization of casting parameters like strand cooling, soft reduction or electromagnetic stirring. The accuracy of the new method was proven by parallel metallographic investigations of more than 100 samples of different steel grades and sample shapes. Automatic defect evaluation and classification was compared against macroetching results. It was found that HD scan identified more defects and the visualization of the macro structure could be performed in more cases than with macro etching. All tests, comparisons, further developments and analyses for various steel producers and steel treatment companies have been conducted at the HD scan unit, located at the SMS group headquarters in Düsseldorf, Germany (Figure 1). Based on the results, SMS group has designed a unit which can be used in industrial scale.

Aug 17, 2017

By Madson Pereira Martins

A utilização de resíduos oriundos de processos industriais tem se tornado uma prática muito recorrente em todo mundo devido à questão ambiental. A legislação brasileira estipulou parâmetros rígidos de destino destes materiais e a indústria viu na construção civil uma possibilidade de utilização. Este trabalho tem como objetivo a caracterização do pó de pedra de gnaisse para utilização em concretos. Serão realizados ensaios de granulometria, determinação de massa especifica e material pulverulento. Os resultados mostraram a viabilidade da incorporação deste resíduo para a produção de concretos.

Aug 16, 2017

By Jaine Ana Ferreira

A GAL tem uma constante preocupação em desempenhar as atividades de embarque e faturamento de forma eficiente e ao mesmo tempo receber a produção cada vez melhor. Pensando nisso, a equipe buscou parâmetros que pudessem medir a eficiência do Entreposto13 e propor melhorias, visando eliminar as constantes paradas de equipamentos por falta de área de armazenagem no Entreposto. O desejo era reduzir a quantidade de bobinas removidas no momento do carregamento, pois quando se reduz esse o manuseio interno, reduz-se o tempo do embarque e consequentemente agiliza o recebimento de bobinas no entreposto. Várias outras melhorias de infraestruturas e gestão de pessoas e equipamentos foram necessárias para que o objetivo final fosse alcançado. Objetivo esse que se resume em reduzir paradas dos equipamentos de Preparação de Bobinas à Quente para aumentar a velocidade de embarque.

Aug 8, 2018

By Karl Berger

As the hot rolling of steel moves into new more compact and effective processes, and as steel producers look for new ways to reduce their costs and increase their margins in ever tightening markets and tolerances, the evolution in Steckel mill technology, layouts, and new innovations may well keep the Steckel mill as a viable option, especially in areas of the world where minimized capital investments are required. In this paper we examine the evolution of the Steckel mills over the last two decades, with emphasis on new innovations and practical results, and provide a summary of hands on experience with some of these innovations. Also a focus on the South American Installations is given (from Siderperu to Gerdau’s newest Combination- Plate-Steckel-Mill). In addition, we aim to show the viability of the Steckel mill as an option for many existing or prospective steel producers, as the quality of the products rolled with Steckel mills reaches new quality parameters and as new innovations permit the rolling of thinner and wider materials, reaching new applications and wider share in markets, while maintaining a strong foothold in the traditional uses of Steckel mill products such as stainless steel, structural, and line pipe materials. As the ability to handle heavier, thicker, and wider coiled plate products increases, the coiled plate Steckel mills option is as strong an option as ever.

Aug 17, 2017

By Ivo Filipovic

The steel melting process in an Electric Arc Furnace is a complex set of tasks, coping with highly dangerous hazards as fire, explosions, uncontrolled reactions, hot metal projections and gas or dust emissions. Melt shops are dangerous working areas for operators, recording statistics with a high frequency of injuries. In the past years, without dedicated safety equipment, there wasn't a real attitude to the risk prevention. The paper describes the available technological packages to eliminate the manned activities on the melting floor, with the aim to prevent accidents and keep furnace operators safe. The technological packages suite extends the automatic control of the EAF melting process to all the operations from charging phase to tapping. Plus, the integration of the most frequent operations by automated specialized tools effectively minimizes power-off times, enhancing reliability and improving the transformation costs.

Aug 17, 2017

By Qingwen Dai

The Marangoni effect is an important phenomenon where a surface tension gradient drives liquid towards high surface tension regions. Temperature gradient, evaporation, disparity of viscosity, and surface roughness and topography are all significant factors that can affect this thermo-capillary migration. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of micro-groove patterns on the migration of paraffin oil, and obtain a well-designed texture of micro-grooves to prevent the thermo-capillary migration. Patterns of micro-grooves with differing orientations and geometric parameters were fabricated on the surface of SUS 316 stainless steel substrates. Experiments on the migration behavior with different viscosities of paraffin oils were carried out various temperature gradients. The experimental phenomena indicated that the surface with the micro-grooves perpendicular or parallel to the temperature gradient have a strong impact on the migration performance of paraffin oil. Micro-grooves perpendicular to the temperature gradient exhibited extraordinary slower migration velocity than that of the parallel one. Width and depth of micro-grooves had an obvious influence on the behavior of temperature-driven migration and detail discussions on the effects of these geometric parameters were carried out.

Jul 31, 2018

By Priscilla Pessin Coppo

The prevention of dental enamel wear has particular relevance for preventive and restorative purposes in dentistry. The wear damage can increase due to salivary disorders and/or parafunction (bruxism); antagonists incisal surfaces become flat and coincident. This study aims to investigate the wear behavior and the related mechanisms in sliding pairs of conformal incisal enamel, with similar values of hardness and fracture toughness, with different applied normal loads and lubricated conditions. Bovine incisors, under pin on flat configuration, were tested in two lubrication condition (dry or with natural saliva) and two applied normal loads (8 and 16 N). The worn surfaces were investigated by 3D profilometry and SEM. The analysis of worn surfaces indicated mechanisms of brittle fracture, but with different severities. Under a normal load of 16 N and dry condition, wear is controlled by a brittle process: microcracking with flake-like wear particles, which results in high friction coefficient (> 0.85), wear rate and wear volume. On the other hand, under a normal load of 8 N and natural saliva, wear took place in the interprismatic region, with consequent exposure of prisms and fracture in localized regions. In this case, the friction coefficient was 16% lower and the wear volume was one order of magnitude lower. Under 8 N and natural saliva, the wear was greater than in the dry condition, probably due to tribochemical reactions.

Jul 31, 2018

By John Malcolm Gray

Interest in X-80 linepipe steels emerged in the early 1980’s and it was first used in 1985 by Ruhr Gas [1]. The early steels were extensions of conventional Nb-V or Nb-Mo microalloyed X-70 steels but other alloying concepts emerged based on Nb-Mo-B alloying (NKSTAF [2] and ULCB [3]). The latter had acicular ferrite/bainitic microstructures and carbon contents below 0.05 percent. In parallel renewed interest developed in ultra low carbon (0.02 percent) higher niobium steels which had first been studied in 1962 [4]. Such steels exhibited excellent notch toughness when processed with high finish rolling temperatures (>950°C) which made them suitable for processing on weak, older rolling mills. With time such steels, designated “High Temperature Processed”, or HTP steels, were further optimized and produced in modern, very strong rolling mills due to their superior economy compared with traditional vanadium and molybdenum containing steels. The chronology of the HTP development is presented in the present paper. Full scale demonstration heats of a 0.06 percent carbon 0.10 percent niobium steel were produced by Bofors Steel Plant in 1972 and were converted from slabs to plates by nine different steel mills [5-7]. Commercial application in API Grade X-70 first occurred in Canada in 1974 [8,9] but the concept was only used sporadically after that until 1998 when it was applied for the API Grade X-70 Sour Service Cantarell Project [10] in Mexico. Soon thereafter, the El Paso Cheyenne Plains Project used a 0.05%C 0.095%Nb 0.27%Cr variant of the HTP steel [10-12]. Nowadays the HTP concept is being utilized for construction of approximately 6000 km of 48” OD x 18.4 mm X-80 per year in China. The metallurgical principles and history of the development are presented in details in this paper.

Aug 7, 2018

By Theodore James Kurela

Analysis of adverse technical issues has traditionally relied on a snapshot of the state of the operation complemented with both the melt shop’s archived data and eyewitness accounts of adverse events. The GrafTech ArchiTech System is helping EAF shops solve problems faster by combining continuous analysis of information with statistically based alerts of process deviations. After one year of system implementation, a number of cases have been detected and communicated to melt shops worldwide. The objective of this paper is to examine a few of these cases; the early detection, statistical analysis, deviation reporting and the resulting countermeasures implemented.

Aug 17, 2017

By Walter Valery, Kristy Duffy, Alex Jankovic, Peter Holtham

Hatch’s Mine to Process Optimization projects integrate mining and processing strategies, minimizing operating costs and maximizing overall profit. The methodology involves ore characterization, blast audits, plant surveys, analysis of historical data, and integrated modelling and simulation of mining and processing. Blast designs are tailored according to ore type and the downstream process is optimized for the changed feed. This approach has increased throughput and minimized costs for many operations worldwide. The implementation of this methodology at an iron ore operation that faced challenges with increasing mining strip ratio and ore body mineralogy changes is presented in this paper. The larger stripping ratio increased mining costs and constrained the run-of-mine (ROM) delivery to the process plant. Process performance was affected as the ore mineralogy shifted from predominantly hematite to include greater proportions of magnetite. The project objective was to minimize overall cost per ton mined and processed and maximize profit. Tailoring the blast designs according to ore type and process optimization increased the throughput of all process lines. This provided the potential to shut down one of the five processing line, aligning the mine and plant capacity and significantly reducing the processing costs.

Oct 3, 2019

By Kengo Usui

The energy consumption of Iron-making, especially Blast Furnace (BF), is very large. In order to maximize the utilization of limited resource, it is essential to reduce energy consumption and recovering waste energy in BF. This paper introduces energy saving equipment based on NSENGI’s over 80 BF construction experiences since 1963. The first is the technology for the Top Charging System for low fuel-rate operation. One of the important factors to achieve such operation, the burden should be charged uniformly. Since 1974, NSENGI have developed and delivered over 80 Top Charging equipments for such purpose and nowadays, developed new type Top Charging equipment with improvement of charging precision. The second is the technology for Solely BFG Operation in Hot Stove, which means no use of other fuel gas such as LDG, COG. It is realized by high combustibility of NSENGI’s Top-Combustion Hot Stove with Metallic Burners, and large amount of heat recovery of Waste gas Heat Recovery system with heat medium. The third is the technology for effective energy recovery in TRT. With NSENGI’s latest Gas Cleaning System “Multi-Vessel Electrostatic Precipitator" (MVEP), TRT will be able to generate higher electrical energy by approx. 30% than that of wet-type. In comparison with dry bag-type, MVEP allows temperature fluctuation which lead to generate higher electrical energy by approx. 10% NSENGI therefore, will be able to accept and meet your request widely.

Aug 1, 2018

By Luiz Peixoto, Andrea Falcon

There are a few ways to impact the capacity of a reciprocating compressor, by altering suction and discharge pressure and recirculation. By reducing the pressure drop in the section before the compressor it is possible to provide a higher suction pressure and subsequently achieve a higher compressor flow rate. The increase in the suction pressure while maintaining the discharge pressure reduced the demanded compressor Head. When considering oxygen compressors it is necessary to cautiously evaluate the safety norms and parameters due to the risk of explosions and fires due to high oxygen velocity.

Oct 3, 2019