What is Metallurgical Coke? (MetCoke)
Bituminous coal is converted into 'metallurgical' coke, which is mainly used in steel blast furnace operations to melt iron ore and remove oxygen from the mix. The use of high-quality coke in a blast furnace results in a lower coke rate, higher productivity, and lower hot metal costs.
Based on the application, Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) Coke, in contrast with normal blast furnace coke and foundry coke, is unique. It requires lower CSR (Coke Strength after Reaction), higher CRI (Coke Reactivity Index), and proper Electric Resistivity.
Electric furnaces are applied in the Steel, Ferro Alloys, Graphites, Refractories, and Fertiliser industries. Coke is also added to steel ladles to re-carburize the melt after discharge from the furnace.
When metallurgical coal is heated in a low-oxygen environment, it undergoes a process that produces strong, low-density coke. The coal softens and releases volatile components, which escape through pores in the mass. This process, known as coking, causes the material to swell and increase in volume.