Effect of Stoichiometric Reductants on the Process of Ferrochrome Production at 1200–1550°C

Ferrochrome alloys are mainly produced in submerged-arc furnaces. Reductants used in ferrochrome production include coke, anthracite, and char. However, it is still unclear what happens after charging carbon in stoichiometric amount or in amounts lower or higher than that. The phase formation and phase transformations of products at different reducing temperatures in the presence of stoichiometric amount of a reductant are studied. The experiments were conducted at 1200, 1300, and 1550°C. Anthracite and coke were used as reductants. The steps, extent, and mechanisms of reactions for coke and anthracite at the same temperature and soaking time are discussed. Reductants are characterized using different analytical techniques to identify the changes in the morphology of reductants and phases associated with changes in the temperature.