Editorial Technical Reference

Electric Arc Furnace

This page explains how Electric Arc Furnace is classified within Basic Metal Manufacturing. Technical values and manufacturer relationships are research references; confirm the current specification and supplier evidence for each order.

Technical Definition & Core Assembly

An electric arc furnace melts scrap steel or direct reduced iron using high-power electric arcs to produce liquid steel.

Representative product image. Confirm appearance and specifications with the manufacturer.

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Electric Arc Furnace

Definition
The electric arc furnace (EAF) is a key component within the integrated direct reduction iron (DRI) and electric arc furnace steelmaking system. Its primary function is to melt solid feedstock—either direct reduced iron (DRI/HBI) or scrap steel—using high-power electric arcs generated between graphite electrodes and the charge material. The furnace transforms this feedstock into liquid steel, which is then ready for further refining and casting processes. The EAF operates as a batch process, with each heat (batch) typically charging 50–120 tonnes of scrap or DRI. The furnace shell diameter ranges from 5 to 7 meters, and the total weight, including the refractory lining and structural components, is typically between 300 and 600 tonnes. The transformer rating, which determines the melting rate, is typically 60–150 MVA, with electrode diameters of 500–700 mm to match current density requirements. During operation, the electrode current per phase is typically 60–100 kA, and the arc voltage ranges from 300 to 600 V, ensuring arc stability. The tapping temperature is typically 1600–1650°C, which is necessary for proper ladle metallurgy. Power consumption depends on scrap quality and typically ranges from 500 to 700 kWh per tonne of liquid steel. The tap-to-tap time, from charging to tapping, is typically 45–60 minutes. Cooling water flow for panels and roof is typically 200–400 m³/h. The operating pressure, typically 1.0–1.6 MPa, must be maintained; deviation from it could affect sealing performance. All values are typical reference ranges and must be verified for the specific model and application. Standards such as IEC 60076 for transformer rating, not proof of compliance. Always confirm model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier.
Working Principle
Electrical energy is converted into thermal energy via an electric arc. High-current electricity is passed through graphite electrodes, creating an intense arc that reaches temperatures exceeding 3000°C. This arc directly heats and melts the metallic charge (DRI/scrap) inside the refractory-lined vessel. The furnace operates in batches, with electrodes lowered to strike the arc, and the heat is transferred to the charge by radiation and convection. The molten steel is then tapped when the desired temperature and composition are achieved.
Common Materials
Scrap Steel, Direct Reduced Iron (DRI/HBI), Graphite Electrodes, Refractory Lining (e.g., magnesia-carbon bricks)
Technical Parameters
ParameterTypical rangeNotes & selection driver
Rated Capacity50–120 tTypical scrap charge per heat
Transformer Rating60–150 MVADetermines melting rateIEC 60076
Electrode Diameter500–700 mmMatches current density
Tapping Temperature1600–1650 °CFor proper ladle metallurgy
Electrode Current60–100 kAPer phase, for arc stability
Electrode Voltage300–600 VArc voltage range
Power Consumption500–700 kWh/tDepends on scrap quality
Tap-to-Tap Time45–60 minFrom charge to tap
Cooling Water Flow200–400 m³/hFor panels and roof
Shell Diameter5–7 mDetermines footprint
Total Weight300–600 tIncluding lining and structure

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM
  • Furnace Shell Part
    The steel outer vessel that contains the refractory lining and molten metal.
    Material: Steel Plate
  • Refractory Lining Part
    Insulates the shell and contains the intense heat of the molten bath.
    Material: Magnesia-Carbon Brick / Basic Refractories
  • Electrode Arm & Holder
    Supports, positions, and conducts electricity to the graphite electrodes.
    Material: Copper / Steel
  • Roof
    Covers the furnace; often water-cooled and contains ports for electrodes and off-gas extraction.
    Material: Water-Cooled Steel Panels
  • Tapping Spout Part
    Channel for pouring out the molten steel at the end of the heat.
    Material: Refractory Material
  • Slag Door Part
    Opening for removing slag from the surface of the molten metal.
    Material: Refractory Material / Steel
  • Graphite Electrodes
    Carry the current into the furnace and strike the arc that does the melting.
    Material: Graphite

Industrial Ecosystem & Supply Chain Structure

Complementary Systems
Downstream Applications
Specialized Tooling

Application Fit & Sizing Matrix

Operational Limits
pressure: Atmospheric to slight positive pressure (0-0.5 bar g)
other spec: Electrical input: 50-150 MVA typical, tap-to-tap time: 45-90 minutes, electrode consumption: 1.5-2.5 kg/ton steel
temperature: Up to 1800°C (3272°F) for steel melting
Media Compatibility
✓ Scrap steel (ferrous metals) ✓ Direct Reduced Iron (DRI/HBI) ✓ Hot metal (pig iron)
Unsuitable: Non-conductive materials (glass, ceramics, plastics) or explosive atmospheres
Sizing Data Required
  • Required annual steel production capacity (tons/year)
  • Available electrical power supply capacity (MVA)
  • Scrap/DRI feedstock composition and quality

Reliability & Engineering Risk Analysis

Failure Mode & Root Cause
Electrode breakage
Cause: Thermal shock from rapid heating/cooling cycles, mechanical stress from improper alignment or handling, or excessive current density leading to cracking.
Refractory lining degradation
Cause: Thermal cycling causing spalling, chemical attack from slag/metal, or erosion from turbulent molten metal flow and arc impingement.
Maintenance Indicators
  • Unstable or erratic arc behavior (audible popping, flickering light, irregular power consumption)
  • Visible cracks or hot spots on furnace shell, or excessive smoke/emissions indicating refractory failure or leaks
Engineering Tips
  • Implement predictive maintenance with thermal imaging and vibration analysis to detect early refractory wear and electrode issues before failure.
  • Optimize operating parameters (e.g., controlled power ramping, slag chemistry management) to reduce thermal and chemical stress on electrodes and linings.

Indicative industry ranges for design and RFQ preparation. Confirm the exact figures and applicable standard with the manufacturer before specifying.

Compliance & Manufacturing Standards

Applicable Standards
ISO 1352:2011 (Steel - Determination of tensile properties) ANSI/AWS D1.1/D1.1M:2020 (Structural Welding Code - Steel) DIN EN 10025-2:2019 (Hot rolled products of structural steels)

Quoted from the published standard.

Manufacturing Precision
  • Electrode alignment: +/- 0.5 degrees
  • Shell roundness: +/- 10 mm
Quality Inspection
  • Ultrasonic Testing (UT) for shell weld integrity
  • Chemical composition analysis via Optical Emission Spectrometry (OES)

Manufacturers of Electric Arc Furnace

9 companies list this product among what they make. Company figures are quoted from each company's own website; every card states where the relationship came from.

China Firebrick
Henan, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
CHNZBTECH
Xian, Shaanxi, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
ZT Materials
Liaoning, CN
Founded 2009
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Guangxi Runxiang Machinery Equipment Manufacturing Co., Ltd.
Guangxi, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Shanghai Metallurgical Equipment Group
Shanghai, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
TYMEC Furnace
Shaanxi, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Wanhao Refractory
Beijing, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Xi'an Huachang Metallurgical Technology Co., Ltd.
Shaanxi, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources
Zibo Jucos Co., Ltd.
Shandong, CN
Listed on the company's own website · profile compiled by CNFX from public sources

Manufacturer listings support early research and capability understanding. They are not certification, ranking, or transaction guarantees.

Technical documentation
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Manufacturing capability
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical capacity of an electric arc furnace?

The typical scrap charge per heat is 50–120 tonnes, but this varies by furnace design and application. Always confirm the rated capacity with the manufacturer for a specific model.

What transformer rating is required for an EAF?

The transformer rating typically ranges from 60 to 150 MVA, which determines the melting rate. The specific rating depends on the furnace size and production requirements. Refer to IEC 60076 for transformer standards, but verify the actual rating with the supplier.

What is the tapping temperature for liquid steel?

The tapping temperature is typically 1600–1650°C, which is necessary for proper ladle metallurgy. The exact temperature may vary based on steel grade and downstream processes. Confirm with the manufacturer.

What standards apply to the operating pressure of an EAF?

The operating pressure is typically 1.0–1.6 MPa is a relevant standard for valve testing. However, standards are reference points, not proof of compliance. Always verify the actual pressure requirements and standards with the manufacturer.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification
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