Effectiveness of silicomanganese smelting utilizing high-ash coal

Abstract

This study investigates the utilization of high-ash coal as an alternative reductant in the smelting of silicomanganese, aiming to reduce the carbon footprint of traditional coke-based processes. Experiments were conducted using an ore-thermal furnace with a transformer power of 200 kVA to simulate industrial conditions. The charge consisted of manganese ore (Mn - 36%), slag from refined ferromanganese production (MnO - 25%), and high-ash coal (ash content 40-50%). Chemical analysis of the produced alloy showed a composition of Mn – 70 %, Si – 20 %, C – 1.28 %, P – 0.06 %, and S – 0.05 %, meeting the standards for silicomanganese. The results demonstrate that high-ash coal can replace coke without compromising the quality of the alloy. This approach not only indirect CO2 emissions but also leverages the abundant availability of high-ash coal, which is often discarded as waste. The study highlights the potential for significant environmental benefits and cost savings, making this method a viable alternative for sustainable industrial practices. The findings support the industrial application of high-ash coal in silicomanganese production, contributing to more eco-friendly and economically feasible metallurgical processes.