Recycling MgO-C refractory in electric arc furnaces

MgO-C refractory recycling from electric arc furnaces and ladle furnaces has been carried out during the melting of direct reduced iron (DRI). Metallurgical trials to define the effects of refractory recycling on energy consumption, melting time, flux consumption and refractory consumption are reported in this work. The method of preparation as well as the method of injection is also included in this study.Based on current results, the practice of recycling spent refractory is highly recommended. Visual inspection indicates the potential benefits in slag foaming which starts to form at the beginning of the heat thus allowing the use of full power transformer and in turn results in faster melting rates.