Introducing STI Webinars

Through a series of webinars, Steel Times International will be offering, free-of-charge, access to some of the best minds in the business. Global steelmakers, respected research and development gurus, academics and high-calibre thought leaders are coming together to discuss all aspects of steel production including: COVID-19, climate policy, green steelmaking, supply chain management, industry 4.0, the future of work, and the European steel industry

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Thursday 28th May 2026 @ 2:00 PM UK time

Non-metallic inclusions are a critical part of steelmaking. Though often microscopic, they play a major role in determining steel quality, influencing properties such as fatigue performance, surface condition, and processability.

In this interview, Spark OES expert Wilhelm Sanders sits down with Dr. Kathrin Thiele of the Christian Doppler Institute for Inclusion Metallurgy in Advanced Steelmaking, explore the critical role of inclusions in modern steel production. Together, they unpack what non-metallic inclusions are, how they form, and why their characterization is essential for both product quality and operational excellence.

The conversation explores the most important inclusion characteristics — including size, composition, and distribution — and how these factors relate to real-world performance. It also provides a practical overview of current analytical approaches, from metallography and automated image analysis to SEM-based techniques and bulk/chemical methods such as total oxygen, electrolytic extraction or Spark OES, highlighting what each method can and cannot reveal.

Finally, the discussion looks ahead to how changing production routes — such as increased scrap use, electric arc furnace operation, and hydrogen-based processes — are reshaping inclusion populations and placing new demands on analysis and process control.
This session is designed to connect metallurgical fundamentals with practical challenges, offering valuable insights for both plant engineers and research professionals working to improve steel cleanliness and consistency.

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