Generally, in the steelmaking process, the classification of Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) is based on specific operational characteristics, such as the nature of the power supply, furnace lining type, charging mode, transformer output power, and tapping mode for molten steel. Commonly, EAF can be categorized according to the following features:
- Power Supply Type: An EAF is classified as either AC or DC based on the type of input power supply.
- Lining Type: Basic lining EAF uses Alkaline refractories such as magnesia and dolomite, while acid lining EAF uses materials like silica bricks, quartz sand, and white clay.
- Charging Mode: An EAF can be charged from the top or the side and the latter is mostly carried out manually.
- Transformer Output Power: Based on the transformer output power, an EAF is categorized as follows: Regular Power (RP) if the output is less than 400 kVA/t; High Power (HP) if it is between 400 and 700 kVA/t; and Ultra-High Power (UHP) if it exceeds 700 kVA/t.
- Tapping Mode: In practical operation, an EAF is also classified by their tapping mode. The main types include side tapping, center bottom tapping (CBT), and eccentric bottom tapping (EBT).
