2023 Steel Intern Scholarship – Ronald E. Lincoln
Christopher C. Currie
Nucor Steel–Berkeley in Huger, S.C., USA, hosted me for a metallurgical internship during the summer of 2023. Here I was immersed in a culture centered around safety. Morning toolbox discussions reminded teammates to stay diligent on safety topics and to look out for one and other. This focus on safety motivated me to find ways to improve the mill and to do this, I completed safety projects. One project focused on improving machine ergonomics, orienting the operator in a more comfortable and upright position. Another project helped to standardize equipment in the melt shop department, by creating posters for proper glove use. These projects assisted the company in its mission to become one of the world’s safest steel companies.
I was also involved in a technical project where I investigated calcium aluminates and how they affect downstream processing and I was able to perform my own test in the materials testing facility. These tests got me involved in daily operations of the lab where I observed the procedure for certifying yield strength. Performing my own testing engaged me in a hands-on activity and data collection. I enjoyed the independence of the project and found that personal responsibility motivates me.
I continued my investigation by learning about clean steel practice and relating processing data to the presence of calcium aluminates. I learned about the unique challenges presented using electric arc furnace technology and how the melt shop modifies inclusion chemistry. I was surprised by the importance of slag in the steel making process. In addition, I analyzed how caster processing data can be used to track agglomerations of calcium aluminates. Although further investigation is necessary to confirm this a more detailed testing procedure was provided as a result.
I also participated in an intern summit located in Chicago. While there, senior interns from all divisions gathered to learn about future innovations and network. This experience created lasting connections for me. I discussed project progress with other interns and learned about other mills’ capabilities. Additionally, I created professional connections with full-time teammates.
Overall, this summer was a great experience in advancing my understanding of steel making and providing real world context for the expectations of a metallurgist. I would like to thank Nucor Steel–Berkeley for hosting me this summer and dedicating time and resources to my learning. I would also like to extend this thank you to AIST. Thank you for helping me establish industry connections and sponsoring my education.