Characterization of Chromiferrous Pyroxenite and Its Application as Flux in Ferrochrome Production Through an Industrial-Scale Submerged Arc Furnace

The present investigation focuses on the characterization and utilization of the pyroxenite as a flux while producing high carbon ferrochrome in a submerged arc furnace. The current research also includes the furnace performance parameters such as average furnace load, average charge resistance, average power factor, specific chromite ore, specific coke, specific quartzite, and the alloy quality and slag parameters during pyroxenite flux trial in an industrial-scale submerged arc furnace. The mineralogy of pyroxenite rock revealed lizardite, olivine, enstatite, grunerite, clinoferrosilite, and chromite. The study of melting behavior showed that the melting of pyroxenite samples starts at 1491.5 °C, and complete melting occurs at 1514.7 °C. The plant performance during the pyroxenite trial period was improved compared to the standard operation period. The submerged arc furnace performance, such as specific power consumption, average charge resistance, and power factor during the trial period, was lowered compared to the standard operation period while maintaining furnace electrical load at a constant level. Similarly, the specific raw materials consumption level for ore, coke, and quartzite was maintained lower during the trial period than the pre-trial period. Graphical Abstract