How Nitrovan® Vanadium
Improves Steelmaking Operations

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TAILORING NITROGEN TO YOUR PRACTICE

Steelmakers using Nitrovan® vanadium have a choice of two vanadium-to-nitrogen ratios. As shown in the chart, Nitrovan® 16 vanadium introduces 30% more nitrogen than Nitrovan® 12. The low-carbon content of Nitrovan® 16 is also an advantage in low-carbon steels.

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No Handling Losses

Briquets of Nitrovan® vanadium are packed in strong, moisture-resistant bags that can be added directly to steel. The use of bags eliminates handling losses and simplifies weighing and inventory control.

Low Residual Pickup

Nitrovan® vanadium is a high-purity product with low levels of residual elements. Its aluminum content is particularly low compared to ferrovanadium.

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How to Maximize Recoveries

Nitrovan® vanadium should be added to molten steel in the same manner as ferrovanadium. Maximum vanadium recoveries are obtained by adding Nitrovan® vanadium after adding deoxidants such as aluminum and ferrosilicon. Aggressive agitation of the steel prevents localized super-saturation of nitrogen and leads to high-nitrogen recoveries. Additions during tapping should be made before the ladle is around 1/3 full.

Nitrovan® vanadium may also be added directly to the steel in the ladle furnace through an opening in the slag. Stirring during the addition will help dissolution and nitrogen recoveries. A reducing slag will also benefit vanadium recoveries. If vacuum degassing is used, maximum retention of nitrogen can be obtained if Nitrovan® vanadium is added at atmospheric pressure after degassing.