In steelmaking, the oxygen dissolved in molten steel must be controlled before casting; otherwise it forms gas bubbles and oxide inclusions as the steel solidifies. Aluminium is one of the most effective elements for the job, and it is added to the melt as granules or hemispheres.
Why aluminium?
Aluminium has a very strong affinity for oxygen. When it is added to molten steel, the oxygen is tied up as aluminium oxide (Al2O3), much of which passes into the slag. Steel that has been fully deoxidized in this way is called “killed steel”. Aluminium also helps control the grain size of the steel.
Why granules and hemispheres?
A uniform shape and weight make additions precise and easy to calculate. Hemispheres of the right density and size pass through the slag and are absorbed into the melt more effectively.
Almas aluminium granule specifications
- Aluminium purity from 80% to 99%; most production at 96% and 97%
- Hemisphere diameter of about 70 mm
- Approximate weight of 250 g per piece
- Packed in 50 kg bags and 500 kg and 1,000 kg jumbo bags
Choosing the right purity
The purity you need depends on the steelmaking process, the type of steel and how consumption is calculated. To choose and get a price for aluminium granules, contact the Almas sales team.