The vacuum consumable arc furnace (VCAF) has the following key characteristics:
- No Contamination During Remelting:
- In vacuum, there is no slag or other material between the consumable electrode and the ingot.
- This ensures the melted material remains uncontaminated during remelting.
- Excellent Degassing:
- The metal being melted is directly exposed to vacuum.
- Hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen, and other gases are effectively removed.
- Purity of Ingot Structure:
- Non-metallic inclusions in the molten metal are lighter and float on the surface.
- This results in a very clean ingot structure.
- Uniform Cooling:
- Ingot cooling occurs in a water-cooled copper crucible.
- Rapid cooling ensures uniform internal structure and prevents segregation.
- High Alloy Capability:
- Large amounts of alloying agents can be added under vacuum, enabling the melting of high-grade alloy steels.
- Short Tapping Time:
- The short interval from melting to tapping improves production efficiency and reduces production costs.