Kaldo converter

The name "Kaldo" is derived from Prof. Bo Kalling, and from the Domnarvets Jernverk (Stora Kopparbergs Bergslag subsidiary) both key in the development of the process.

[1] The converter was a top blow oxygen converter, similar to Linz-Donawitz (LD) type, using a cylindrical vessel; the vessel was tilted whilst conversion took place, with typical rotation speeds of around 30 revolutions per minute; the oxygen was injected via a lance, with slag forming materials added separately.

[4] Before the advent of the basic-LD process the Kaldo method was a preferred one in the UK for converting high phosphorus iron.

[9] A combined type of converter (LD-Kaldo), using elements of the Linz-Donawitz (LD) and Kaldo processes was installed 1965 in Belgium at Cockerill-Ougrée-Providence's plant in Marchienne-au-Pont as a multicompany research venture.

[13] Advantages included the ability to use a high proportion of scrap metal, and good controllability of final steel specification.

Evolution of chemical composition and temperature of the liquid steel, during the blowing in a Kaldo converter. The iron content is linked with the slag composition, the others elements are taken in the metal.