Abstract: Methods are provided for producing in a single method low-carbon steel, while at the same time selectively obtaining a slag high in vanadium content for separate applications. Moreover, the method allows for the separate production of a slag high in titanium content if the starting materials contain titanium. The above is achieved by introducing the pre-reduced ore directly to an electro slag resistance furnace which is lined with a refractory in accordance with the slag composition being used. The resulting smelted steel is tapped and the slag is tapped separately. The slag, containing the vanadium and small quantities of iron oxides, is then introduced into a reduction furnace. Slag, high in titanium dioxide, if present originally, is then tapped separately from the smelted crude iron, which is tapped with a high vanadium content. Subsequently, the crude iron may be separated from the vanadium in a shaking pan in the presence of oxygen, if so required, depending upon the desired product.

Abstract: A method is provided for producing steel in an economically acceptable fashion from iron sponge with less than 66% Fe and with high acid slag formers. This is achieved by first determining the acid slag forming composition of the iron sponge, and, thereafter, lining an electro-slag-resistance furnace with a lining compatible with the iron sponge composition. Then, the iron sponge is charged to the furnace and the liquid metal formed is withdrawn to a conventional arc furnace, for example, for further processing.

Abstract: A method is provided for producing steel with a very low carbon content of as low as 0.015% by continuously maintaining a foaming slag layer at a particular volume, and using as the charge a pre-reduced sponge with a specified carbon/oxygen ratio. The process includes utilizing a slag with a specific content of iron and magnesium oxide.