Thermodynamics of Iron Metallothermy

Abstract

Besides other possible applications, the thermitic compositions based on iron oxides are meant to the achieving of the permanent joints of the railroad tracks. In addition to the iron oxides, the thermitic kit include also the reducing agent – aluminum powder, a carbon source to adjust the percent of this element in the obtained steel and a flux with a view to allow the steel composition and temperature control. The metallothermic process efficiency is given by strictness in the selection of ratio of the thermitic components and mainly in that of the iron oxides types. Their correct dosage makes possible the estimation and rigorous control of the thermal effect of reactions. In this work, using thermodynamic calculations, is analyzed and quantified the development of the thermal effect of the metallothermic reduction reactions of iron oxides depending on the iron oxides proportions in the thermitic composition.