Applying a computer model predicting MgO satured slag chemistry to extend basic refractory service life

The dissolution of solid oxides in molten slag is affected by chemical reactions at the refractory/slag interface. Slag chemistry plays a major role in the refractory service life. Slags saturated in MgO will decrease thedissolution of MgO from the refractory. The saturation solubility of refractory oxides in molten slag can be estimated by using MgO-CaO-SiO 2 -FeO, MgO-CaO-Al 2 O 3 -SiO 2 and SiO 2 -CaO-Al 2 O 3 -FeO phase diagrams. Besides reducing refractory wear, a saturated slag can reduce the frequency of refractory repair in an EAF, improve the quality of slag foaming, and increase the energy efficiency of steel production. An application using this computer modeling to help a steel plant will be discussed.