Blast furnace campaign extension by fundamental understanding of hearth processes

Abstract

In blast furnace ironmaking hearth performance has a critical effect on the efficiency of the operations and the campaign duration. In this paper the relationship between hearth lining design and lining wear is analysed, based on plant data and research activities of Tata Steel Europe that is supported by information published elsewhere. Tools to model, monitor and visualise the hearth processes are discussed. Current hearth management practices are illustrated. It is noted that the varying process conditions make current campaigns less predictable than previous ones. The hearth lining design rules developed decades ago seem to be in need of revision.

Keywords:

• Blast furnace hearth
• Hearth monitoring
• Hearth lining wear
• Hearth modelling
• DEM
• CFD
• FEM