SIMETALCIS AOD Optimization    Process optimization system for AOD converter

The Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD) optimization system is a completely integrated solution for stainless steel converters (top and bottom blowing) covering the complete range of available refining technologies, such as AOD and K-OBM-S. Intelligent control of the converter process is performed by the application of SteelExpert, a comprehensive group of process models.

AOD process overview The challenge While demands on products and processes are ever increasing, stainless steel producers meet capacity limits that may not least be caused by inadequate automation technology. Often, outdated automation systems supply poor optimization and insufficient documentation of steelmaking processes and thus cause high maintenance costs. Standard melting profiles can only take the target steel quality into account. The actual course of the refining process (e.g. actual charged materials, actual blown oxygen) which strongly influences the condition of the steel bath cannot be considered.

Our solution

Siemens VAI automation systems are based on decades of combined engineering, plant-building, operational, metallurgical and automation experience. The automation solutions focus on ensuring an optimum metallurgical and process technological performance with respect to steel quality and operational costs. The AOD process models, referred to as SteelExpert, are purely based on physical and chemical principles and perfectly image and optimize the converter process. One set of online models monitors the metallurgical and thermal process, thus cyclically calculating the actual condition of steel bath and slag. The group of setpoint models is responsible for determination of the required supply of raw materials and gas volumes for different treatment steps. The prediction model performs a simulation of the complete production process. It provides a forecast of the progress and the final condition of the heat.

Good reasons for SIMETALCIS AOD Optimization

Consistently high and reproducible steel quality

Reduced material and refractory costs

Increased productivity and yield

Increased hitting rate for steel analysis and temperature

User-friendly operation, full transparency and flexibility