The Equilib-ARMAX approach to the dynamic modelling of the melt metallurgy in DC plasma arc smelting operations

A methodology is presented and evaluated to model the metallurgical dynamics of DC plasma arc smelting, using high carbon ferrochrome production as a case study. The model type is called an Equilib-ARMAX model as it integrates fundamental thermodynamic models with dynamic models. The Equilib-ARMAX model takes into account the inherently uncertain nature of smelter plant data, as well as the process dynamics and the moving chemical equilibrium target. The model structure, modelling performance, and model limitations of this model type are presented. The model could predict the metallurgical dynamics well within the inherent uncertainty of the process data.