ActiveARC

EAF/LF electrodes arc control system

System description

ActiveARC is Polytec’s advanced automation and control system for Electric Arc Furnaces (EAF), designed to maximize melting efficiency by ensuring precise and stable electrode regulation throughout the entire melting cycle.
The system continuously monitors electrical parameters, including current, voltage, and harmonic distortion on the transformer secondary side—and dynamically controls the hydraulic proportional valves that regulate electrode movement. This enables the formation and maintenance of a stable electric arc, optimizing energy transfer to the scrap while reducing electrical consumption, electrode wear, and refractory stress.
Polytec provides a complete solution including engineering, Level 1 and Level 2 automation, commissioning, operator training, and long-term service support.
ActiveARC THD module uses high-speed harmonic analysis to monitor foaming slag conditions and optimize submerged arc operation during carbon injection, further improving furnace efficiency and reducing radiation losses.

ActiveARC

System highlights

settings

Main components

  • Advanced real-time electrode movement control algorithm
  • High-speed electrical measurement system (current, voltage, harmonics)
  • Adaptive control gains based on arc length and transformer tap position
  • Dynamic process parameter management throughout the melting cycle
  • Multiple operating modes (current, impedance, active power, or power factor)
  • Optional ActiveARC THD for foaming slag and submerged arc control
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Benefits

  • Reduced electrical energy consumption
  • Increased average electrical power input and melting efficiency
  • Improved arc stability throughout the melting process
  • Reduced electrode and refractory consumption
  • Shorter tap-to-tap times and higher furnace productivity
  • Optimized melting performance and process consistency
  • Optional THD control to reduce arc radiation losses and carbon consumption
  • Fast return on investment (ROI) through lower operating costs and higher productivity

Technical specifications | Hardware

Based on PLC/DCS/PAC & HMI / operator panel market standard

SIEMENS, ROCKWELL, GE, B&R, BECKHOFF..

To be agreed according to customer preferences

Technical specifications | Software

User friendly graphical interface

Bar graph, gauge and trend for every electrical measures

V, I, W, VA, power factor, ARC length, I phase symmetry

Multiple set point operation

Current, impedance, active power or power factor

Multiple operating profiles

Complete functionality parameterization, for adaptation to the existing plant

Ultra-fast real-time software oscilloscope application for advanced diagnosis

OPC interface to connect the ActiveARC electrode control system to a real-time database for all measures and data storage

Alarm and event historical archive

Book a meeting and get a quotation

Contact us and share your preliminary request.
From feasibility study through design and implementation, we’ll support you in developing the best solution.

sales@bmgroup.com