Doctoral Network on the adoption of Hydrogen mEtalLurgy In the climate-neutral production Of Steel - HELIOS

DC3: Future EAF steelmaking with different iron-bearing raw materials

Project title: Future EAF steelmaking with different iron-bearing raw materials (WP1)

Host Institution: University of OULU

Country: Finland

Supervisor: Ville-Valtteri Visuri (UOULU) – Co-supervisors: Petri Sulasalmi (UOULU), Jarmo Lilja (SSAB), Martin Kendall (HEEL)

Objectives: 

  • Develop a dynamic model for the metal-slag phase equilibria using constrained Gibbs energy minimization;
  • Develop a dynamic energy balance of the process using different raw materials;
  • Model the slag foaming using different carbon-containing materials;
  • Set up an improved plasma model for online use;
  • Apply machine-learning algorithms based on offline information to tune the model parameters;
  • Couple the model predictions with off-gas measurements to detect deviations from the planned heat trajectory and differences in the observed and predicted melting rate;
 

Expected results: 

  • Dynamic process model of the EAF as a tool to assess the use of different iron-bearing raw materials and carbon-containing foaming agents;
  • Capability to predict the energy balance and evolution of the phase structure of the slag during the EAF process, including the foaming of the slag;

Planned secondments:

Host: SSAB; Supervisor: Agne Bogdanoff; Timing: M33; Length: 1 month; Purpose: The secondment will focus on simulations for DRI-based EAF steelmaking. To be trained in DRI-based EAF process.

Host: Heraeus; Supervisor: Martin Kendall; Timing: M15-17; Length: 3 months; Purpose: The secondment will focus on the utilization of new sensors for the validation of the EAF model and its modules. To be trained in sensor technology.

Enrolment in Doctoral degree(s): University of OULU Graduate School (UniOGS)

Candidate requirements: 

  • Master’s degree in Process Metallurgy, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or Physics.
  • The degree must be completed with good grades, latest by the start of the employment.
  • Good proficiency in the English language (both written and spoken)
  • Good communication skills and the ability to work as a part of a team and independently.