Forming a layer of free flowing magnesite powder in the hearth conditions of an open hearth furnace

Conclusions

Completion of the processes of compaction of magnesite powders MPK and MPM, besides being affected by the properties of these powders, is determined by three factors: pressure, temperature, and time of action of pressure and temperature. With conditions similar to those existing in open-hearth furnaces we get the maximum density in the forming layer of magnesite powder MPK of 2.5–2.7 g/cm³, powder MPM 2.7–2.9 g/cm³. The only controllable factor in the open-hearth furnace is the period of action of pressure and temperature of the hearth of the furnace. In actual conditions of open-hearth melting we can add to these factors the effect of nonmetallic melting developed in the bath and dropping on to the hearth, both in the period of “ore-boiling” and also during discharge of the metal from the furnace [4].