Energy / Energy consumption

Energy / Energy consumption is the designation for the product of performance (output) x time, and is specified in kWh. In melting, the concept of “energy consumption” per tonne of melted material is usually of interest. Here however, a distinction must be made between theory and practice. In the case of high-output casting furnaces, the theoretical consumption is between 510 to 540 kWh per tonne of molten iron. Practical experience however shows that a more accurate figure is 585 to 640 kWh/tonne. If a crucible furnace is operated as a “melting machine” with optimum charging, extraction and process control, energy consumptions of 560 kWh/tonne and tapping temperatures of 1,550 °C can be achieved.