ARC-HEATING TYPE AXTRA-FURNACE REFINING APPARATUS

摘要

A ladle containing molten steel tapped from a conveter is covered by a lid containing an electrode in order to effect final steel refinement by means of an arc heating process. Sealing means are provided between the electrode and the insertion hole to prevent metal oxidation or nitrogen pickup. Argon gas is injected into the seal of the electrode and down into the metal. The seal may be water cooled. The gas seal prevents ingress of atmospheric air into the ladle, thus preventing metal oxidation or nitrogen pick-up.