A higher level of product sophistication and unstable charging material quality require an economically optimized BOF process operation.Technological benchmarking to assess different operating philosophies ( e.g.,bottom purging versus no bottom purging) as well as various maintenance approaches ( e.g.,slag maintenance and maintenance using unshaped refractory products) and their influences on process stability are discussed in detail.Based on an international benchmark study,metallurgical results achieved using different set-ups such as blowing practices,and the efficient and effective use of bottom purging plugs are compared using key performance indicators ( KPls).The advantages,disadvantages,and limitations of each philosophy are highlighted.The wear pattern of a BOF refractory lining varies,depending on the operating philosophy.Therefore,common maintenance methods are evaluated and compared,while also considering the influences on the steelmaking process and achievable metallurgical results.