Effect of electrode shape on the current distribution in submerged arc furnaces for silicon production - A modelling approach

Abstract

Current distribution is critical for proper operation of submerged arc furnaces for silicon production. Control systems do not offer this information as it is not directly measurable, but metallurgists operate furnaces based on their experience and interpretation of available data. A number of recent dig-outs of industrial furnaces have expanded the available information on location-dependent charge properties, thus enabling numerical models with reasonably realistic domain configurations to be constructed. This has the potential to enhance understanding of critical process parameters, allowing more accurate furnace control.