Abstract: A method of improving post-combustion heat recovery in a vessel containing a charge of molten ferrous metal and slag includes the use of a lance for the introduction of oxygen gas into the charge. The method includes blowing oxygen into the charge through at least one first nozzle of the lance for refining the molten metal into steel. Oxygen is blown through at least one second nozzle of the lance from at least one location spaced above the first nozzle at an oxygen flow rate effective to produce foamy slag in an amount for obtaining a post-combustion heat transfer efficiency of at least about 40% without appreciable overflow of the slag from the vessel. The oxygen flow rate from the second nozzle is at a minimum at about a starting point of a peak decarburization period of the charge. Iron oxide containing pellets may also be added to the charge.

Abstract: A steelmaking furnace is cleaned and maintained using a lance which includes an elongated lance body including at least one first nozzle opening proximal to an end that extends into the furnace and at least one other second nozzle opening spaced upwardly from the first nozzle opening. Structure defines at least one passageway extending through the body to the first nozzle opening and to the second nozzle opening. Gas supply means selectively introduces different gases into the passageway. The lance apparatus can be operated to emit either different gases or the same gas from the first and second nozzle openings at the same time. The gases emitted include an oxygen-containing gas and a gas that includes an inert gas.