An image analysis-based method for automatic data extraction from pilot draining experiments

ABSTRACT

An image analysis-based method is developed to automatically interpret videos of a transparent Hele-Shaw model in studies of blast furnace hearth drainage in pilot scale. By the approach, information from experiments can be extracted for quantitative assessment of the draining phenomena. The algorithm consists of modules for (1) image pre-processing, (2) interface tracking, and (3) bending-point detection. The pre-processing step makes preparatory estimates for the next module that extracts the liquid–gas and liquid–liquid interfaces. Finally, bending points of the interfaces are detected and parameters quantifying the interface bending are calculated. The algorithm is illustrated by applying it to a video of a draining experiment, demonstrating how information can be extracted. The method can be used to compile information from a large set of experiments to gain a deeper understanding of the complex two-phase flow in the blast furnace hearth and to quantify the findings for a validation of computational models.

KEYWORDS:

• Blast furnace
• hearth drainage
• image analysis
• interface detection
• Hele-Shaw model
• liquid levels

Acknowledgments

This work was carried out with support from the Abo Akademi Foundation, and this funding is gratefully acknowledged. Also, the coauthor (Lei Shao) wishes to thank the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant 51604068) for providing financial support for this work.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Funding

This work was carried out with support from the Abo Akademi University Foundation, and this funding is gratefully acknowledged. Also, the coauthor (Lei Shao) wishes to thank the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant 51604068) for providing financial support for this work.