ARC FURNACE Meaning and
Definition
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An electric arc furnace (often referred to as arc furnace) is a modern industrial equipment used for heating and melting metals. It utilizes the principle of an electric arc to generate intense heat that can exceed 3,000 degrees Celsius (5,432 degrees Fahrenheit) within a container. The furnace consists of a refractory-lined vessel known as the furnace shell, which acts as the primary chamber where the metal is melted and refined.
At the core of an arc furnace is a pair of graphite electrodes that extend into the furnace shell. When an electric current passes through these electrodes, it creates an electric arc that forms between them. The intense heat generated by the electric arc is transferred to the metal, causing it to melt and reach the desired temperature for further processing.
Arc furnaces are commonly used in the metalworking industry for a variety of applications like alloying, refining, and recycling of metals. They are particularly suitable for melting scrap metal, as their high temperatures and strong heat transfer capabilities facilitate the efficient breakdown of metallic materials into their liquid form. Additionally, arc furnaces are a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods of metal refining, as they can use renewable energy sources and produce lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Overall, arc furnaces play a crucial role in modern metal production, serving as a highly efficient and versatile tool for melting and refining metals through the utilization of electric arcs.
Etymology of ARC FURNACE
The word "arc furnace" has a straightforward etymology based on its components.
The term "arc" originates from the Latin word "arcus", which means "curve" or "bow". In this context, it refers to the electric arc that occurs in the furnace. An electric arc is a continuous discharge of electricity between two electrodes, resulting in a bright, luminous light and intense heat. The word "arc" is commonly used to describe this phenomenon in various contexts, such as arc welding, electric arc lamps, or arc flash.
Meanwhile, the word "furnace" has a more complex etymology. It comes from the Latin word "fornax", which means "oven" or "hearth". "Fornax" itself is derived from the ancient Greek word "phaernos", meaning "oven" or "baking place".
