Load characteristics of a submerged-arc silicon-smelting furnace

SUBMERGED-arc furnaces have been in commercial operation for more than 50 years. However, the literature tells little about what they require from the supplier of the electric energy or what effects they have on the supply system. A silicon-smelting furnace is typical of these operations. In fact, this process is generally considered to be one of the most exacting in its demands for precise operation to prevent undesirable performance of the furnace and unreasonable demands on the electricity supplier. This paper presents information on the electrical performance of such a furnace.