Ladle Refining is arcing of liquid metal using graphite electrodes similarly as it happens in Arc Furnace. It is a secondary metallurgy process and helps in purification by removal of inclusions/impurities along with control additions of alloying elements and desulphurisation.
What Is Ladle Refining Furnace (LRF)?
It also helps get the required temperature for Vacuum Degassing process which reduces the gases like hydrogen and oxygen in steel. Both processes result in ultraclean steel which gives superior internal soundness. They also give better yield from raw material to finish components thus net savings. If either of the processes is not done, the cleanliness is not achieved.
VD Route Steel And Non-VD Route Steel
Often, we have to explain to our customers about VD route steel and non-VD route steel. It is important to understand that without Ladle Refining (LRF), VD route steel cannot be manufactured. For VD to be effective it is supposed to reach below 1mbar and be held at 1 mbar for a certain time for hydrogen and oxygen to be removed from the liquid steel.
LRF helps get the required temperature for VD, otherwise only VD without LRF will not reach below 1 mbar.
Why Many Mills Don't Use LRF
Since LRF is an expensive process owing to the electricity costs and the cost of Mg-C bricks used in ladle, most smaller mills do not operate or install the facility.
Is Your Supplier Confirming To Achieve 1mbar In Vacuum Degassing?
If not, then it is not vacuum degassed steel as is a non VD route steel. At Mahendra Enterprises, we are committed to producing the highest quality of steel with 100% LRF and VD in all our grades including free cutting steels.
Key Benefits Of LRF + VD Process
- Ultraclean Steel: Removal of inclusions and impurities results in superior internal soundness
- Gas Removal: Effective reduction of hydrogen and oxygen when VD reaches below 1mbar
- Better Yield: Improved yield from raw material to finished components
- Controlled Alloying: Precise additions of alloying elements during the process
- Desulphurisation: Effective removal of sulphur content
- Temperature Control: LRF provides the required temperature for effective VD operation
Our Commitment
Mahendra Enterprises Steel is a brand recognized for reliable and dependable alloy steels. We ensure 100% LRF and VD processing in all our grades, guaranteeing the highest quality standards for our customers.