Remote filling system for the tap-hole of an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF)
ABOUT THE RTC
Improving the safety level for the assistant steelmaker when performing the technological operation of filling the tap-hole block with starting mixture after tapping the heat.
Hopper filling control
Based on the signal from the level sensor in the storage hopper, the operator determines the degree of its filling with the mixture and, if necessary, performs the hopper filling operation.
Cleaning the filling hole
On command from the control panel, the flap opens, and the Remote Filling System (RFS) cleans the hole by moving the cleaner mechanism rod to the extreme lower position for brief pounding. The actuator principle is pneumatic. The rod stroke during cleaning is up to 200 mm. Cleaning time is approximately 20 seconds.
Assessment of cleaning quality
Next, the cleaner rod automatically rises to the extreme upper position. After raising the rod, the camera is activated, and the operator assesses the quality of the filling hole cleaning. In case of satisfactory quality, the operator determines the required amount of mixture. In case of unsatisfactory quality, the operator initiates the cleaning operation again from the control panel.
Portion calculation and filling
After assessment, the operator sets the required portion in kilograms from the control panel (DSP1) or the local panel. A software algorithm calculates the gate valve opening time based on the set portion mass. During the opening time of the gate valve, the required amount of mixture travels through the pipelines via a funnel into the filling hole. The software algorithms are calibrated for the mixture characteristics specified in the Terms of Reference.
Control after filling
The operator opens the gate valve from the panel, after which the specified portion is filled. The gate valve closes automatically after filling and sends a signal about the closure to the control panel. After the signal of completion, the operator activates the camera to check the quality and quantity of the filling and makes a decision: add another portion or complete the filling.
Refilling and completion
If it is necessary to add a portion, the operator sets the required quantity again and performs the refilling of the mixture, re-controlling its quality and quantity. Upon completion of the filling, the operator's work is finished.
SYSTEM COMPONENTS
Installation of a remote tap-hole filling system on the bay panel of an electric arc furnace (modular flexible furnace), consisting of:
1. Starting mixture supply hopper
2. Visual control camera for filling completeness of the tap-hole block
3. Manipulator (hopper gate valve actuator)
4. Hole flap in the bay panel
5. Local filling control panel with a screen
6. Cleaning mechanism for the hole in the bay panel to remove slag-metal build-ups