Chinese steelmaker Hubei Shunle has successfully commissioned two EAF Quantum electric arc furnaces from Primetals Technologies at its plant in Hubei Province. Designed for high efficiency, the furnaces support annual production of two mln tons of high-strength seismic rebar while delivering significant cost savings.
Hubei Shunle and Primetals have now released key performance data: the furnaces routinely achieve 50 heats per day, a world record in electric steelmaking, with tap-to-tap times under 28 minutes. Power-on and power-off times average 25 and 3 minutes, respectively. Energy efficiency is also notable, with power consumption below 312 kWh/ton and oxygen use under 24 m3/ton.
The EAF Quantum incorporates several innovations. Its off-gas system preheats scrap using waste heat, reducing power-on times and energy use. The FAST system enables tapping and tap-hole filling while the furnace is energized, further minimizing cycle times. These features help lower both operational costs and CO2 emissions.
Beyond seismic rebar, Hubei Shunle also produces steel wires, tubes, carbon and alloy steels, and stainless steel.
