Dofasco explosion caused during Slag Casting process

ArcelorMittal is saying that the explosion that caused a large cloud and significant air emission at Dafasco yesterday was due to the “slag casting process”.

“The incident was a series of eruptions that occurred during the Slag Casting process – when slag and molten iron from the Blast Furnace are separated and the slag is cast,” said ArcelorMittal in a statement. “In this case liquid slag / iron came into contact with moisture which caused the eruptions. (The Blast Furnace produces liquid iron used in steelmaking. Slag, a byproduct, is cast, then pelletized and used in aggregate applications).”

“The reaction was between water and primarily liquid iron and would have been comprised of mostly iron, iron oxide and water vapour, as well as silica, calcium, magnesium, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide.”

The eruption happened around 11:10 a.m. yesterday at the No. 4 Blast Furnace. Fortunately, there were no injuries. However, there was a significant amount of air emission. The Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks were alert.

Hamilton Fire attended and secured the site by 12:30 p.m. yesterday.

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