Step 1: What is the VAD Process?
VAD stands for Vacuum Arc Degassing. It is a type of secondary steel refining process used after the primary steelmaking in the electric arc furnace (EAF) or basic oxygen furnace (BOF).
Step 2: Purpose of VAD
The VAD process is designed to:
- Remove dissolved gases like hydrogen, oxygen, and nitrogen under vacuum.
- Allow alloying under controlled temperature and pressure.
- Improve steel purity and mechanical properties.
Step 3: Why It's Secondary Refining
Primary steelmaking removes most impurities from molten iron. VAD, as part of the secondary refining, enhances quality and precision in steel chemistry.
Step 4: Elimination of Other Options
- Iron extraction: Related to iron ore to pig iron processes.
- Reduction process: General term; not specific to VAD.
- Concentration: Applies to ore beneficiation, not steel refining.
Conclusion: The VAD process is a secondary refining process used for high-grade steelmaking.