VDEh Steel Institute (Düsseldorf, Germany):

Fandrich R., Dr. Eng.

Lüngen H. B., Dr. Eng.

Sprecher M.

E-mail (common): redaktion@stahleisen.de

The processes of direct reduction and reduction melting for iron ore reduction allow to shorten the technological chain, because the cokemaking stage is eliminated in comparison with conventional blast furnace practice. However, such units are not used in Europe, excluding one plant. Therefore, the question about boundary conditions of economically efficient application of these processes arises. At present time blast furnace process achieved its technological optimum meaning resourceand power efficiency. It is true to ask, is there any additional potential that is expedient to be put into practice from the technological and economical points of view? The integrated steelmaking route has been varies substantially in the framework of recently realized transformations in the field of power engineering and development of new constructions. Today the following problems connected with cutting the general expenses for power sources are subjected to especial attention: combination of material and power flows, supply of power resources by other companies and generation of cupola power. It is concluded that efficient usage of power is always an integral part of the strategy at any enterprise.