Extended process control through rapid analysis of inclusions by optical emission spectrometry

Important results from the project

The aim of the project is to develop technology for control and measurement of the non-metallic inclusions during the process, in order to ensure the steel performance within well determined specifications. The project goals are to realise such technology based on optical spectroscopy (OES-PDA) adapted to the needs of participating companies, and to develop strategies to control the processes based on data from these instruments. Both of these goals have been achieved for the participating companies.

Expected long term effects

The project results are 1) calibrated and verified OES-PDA systems in two companies for rapid determination of non-metallic inclusions; 2) strategies for process control with respect to non-metallic inclusions. The anticipated effects are e.g. more consistent steel quality and reduced losses in the production. The result at the end of the project is that one company has already been able to show the anticipated effect in production, and a second company is very close to implementing the technology in the production.

Approach and implementation

Adjustment and calibration of OES-PDA instruments at two companies was carried out in cooperation with staff from SWERIM AB. Selected process samples from participating companies were analysed with reference methods for verification. Industrial trials in order to follow changes in the inclusion content during the process were carried out with assistance from KTH. Theoretical calculations as basis for process control strategies with respect to inclusion content were carried out by KTH. This work plan gave the desired results, in such a way that the project goals were achieved.