The VOD process (Vacuum Oxygen Decarburization) from SMS group has been successfully used in the production and refining of stainless and acid- and heat-resistant steel since the end of the 1950s. To date, more than 100 plants with heat sizes of up to 200 tons have been built using this process. It is used to achieve particularly low carbon contents in an economical way, as the oxidation of chromium is significantly reduced by blowing oxygen for decarburization under reduced pressure. The consumption of reducing agents is also considerably lower.
Our VOD plants are designed to meet the specific requirements of the production program, the timing in the steel mill, and the individual process of our customers. Each VOD plant can also be used as a VD or VD-OB plant.
Customer challenges addressed
- Efficient dephosphorization and refined chemistry control for high-grade steels
- Strong reduction of dissolved gases for improved cleanliness
- Accurate decarburization under vacuum/inert conditions to meet low-carbon specifications