title = "Electric Arc and Induction Furnace Operations"

content = """
Ridgecrest Metalworks operates electric arc furnaces (EAF) and induction furnaces for primary melting
of steel, ductile iron, and non-ferrous alloys. Both furnace types convert electrical energy to heat
but by different mechanisms, each with distinct operational characteristics, process controls, and
safety requirements.

Electric Arc Furnace (EAF):
The EAF generates heat by striking an electric arc between graphite electrodes and the metallic charge.
The arc temperature can reach 3500°C, sufficient to melt any production metal. The EAF at Ridgecrest
is used for high-volume steel melt and ductile iron production.

Operational Sequence:
1. Charge the furnace with scrap steel and alloy additions using the overhead crane and charge bucket.
2. Lower electrodes and strike the arc (boring-in phase) at reduced power to penetrate the cold charge.
3. Increase power progressively as the charge melts and the arc bores through.
4. Once a bath is formed, monitor and adjust temperature and chemistry with periodic sampling.
5. Slag practice: maintain correct slag basicity to remove phosphorus and sulfur from the melt.
6. Tap the furnace at the specified temperature and chemistry into the ladle through the tap hole.

EAF Safety: The furnace environment involves extreme radiant heat, potential for arc flash, and the
risk of an explosive reaction if wet scrap or moisture-contaminated materials enter the furnace.
All scrap charged to the EAF must be dry. Electrode adjustment during arc operation requires operators
to be behind shields. The tap area must be kept clear of personnel during tapping.

Induction Furnace:
Induction furnaces use electromagnetic induction to heat the metal charge. A copper coil surrounding
the refractory crucible carries high-frequency alternating current; the resulting magnetic field
induces eddy currents in the metal charge, heating it by electrical resistance.

Induction furnaces offer precise temperature control, clean melting (no arc, no combustion products),
and natural stirring of the melt from electromagnetic forces. They are used at Ridgecrest for
aluminum, copper alloy, and small steel melt heats where chemistry control and cleanliness are paramount.

Refractory Management (Both Furnace Types):
Furnace linings degrade with use, thermal cycling, and chemical attack from slag and metal. Lining
thickness must be checked regularly (ultrasonic or measurement methods depending on design) and the
furnace taken offline for reline before the lining reaches minimum allowable thickness.
"""

version = "0.0.1"
