Step 1: What is Ladle Metallurgy?
Ladle metallurgy is a set of refining operations carried out in the ladle after the steel is tapped from the primary furnace (like BOF or EAF). It enhances steel quality before casting.
Step 2: Operations Included in Ladle Metallurgy
Common ladle metallurgy operations include:
- Deoxidation: Addition of elements like Si, Al to remove dissolved oxygen.
- Desulphurisation: Removal of sulfur by adding calcium or fluxes.
- Sulphide shape control: Use of argon or rare earths to modify MnS inclusion shape.
Step 3: Decarburisation is Excluded
Decarburisation (removal of carbon) is a primary furnace operation, carried out in:
- BOF (Basic Oxygen Furnace) by oxygen blowing, or
- EAF (Electric Arc Furnace) during oxidation.
Ladle metallurgy does not focus on significant carbon removal.
Conclusion: The operation not included in ladle metallurgy is decarburisation.