Method for increasing metallic yield in bottom blown processes

Abstract From the Canadian patent

In the Q-BOP process for the production of low carbon steels (eg. 0.02 - 0.05% C), inert gas-oxygen mixtures are employed during the latter part of the blow, i.e. when the C content of the melt reaches a level of about 0.25%. At such lower carbon contents the rate of decarburization is not decreased by dilution of the oxygen with inert gas. However, such dilution results in less O2 being available for oxidation of iron, hence significant increases in metallic yield may be achieved. By precise control of the O2/inert gas ratio, increases in metallic yield in excess of 2% are achieved.