Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD)
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What is Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD)?
Argon Oxygen Decarburization (AOD) is a refining process for ferrous metals such as stainless steel or high-grade steel that improves alloy performance through tight chemistry control and high levels of metal purity.
The AOD refining process produces low carbon (0.025% or less) steel and low silicon and sulfur levels. A mixture of oxygen and argon gases is injected into the molten metal bath. The oxygen reacts with carbon in the steel, forming carbon monoxide, which is removed from the vessel. This decarburization reduces the steel’s carbon content. This results in improved properties such as:
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Weldability (reducing weld electrode use by over 50%)
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Corrosion resistance
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Strength
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Malleability
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Heat resistance
Customers can request AOD in their specifications to significantly improve alloy performance.
MetalTek offers AOD at Carondelet (capacity of 10,000 lbs. / 4536 kg), Sandusky International (capacity of 40,000 lbs. / 18 143 kg), and Wisconsin Centrifugal (capacity of 12,000 lbs. / 5443 kg). Our AOD process has been refined with years of expertise. With toll melting, we can control costs by capturing and reusing machine chips and recycling raw materials with guaranteed high purity. Contact us to learn more.
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