ABSTRACT
Both electric and fuel-heated furnaces contain an oxidizing atmosphere with free oxygen, moisture, and CO/CO
. Most metals and alloys are oxidized in such an atmo-
sphere. For some metals (aluminum, stainless steels) the oxide is in the form of a tightly adhering skin, preventing further oxidation. Metals like carbon alloy steels, and brasses form a heavy and loose scale which drops off. Thus, their oxidation is continuous and represents significant waste.
