A Novel Method of Online Measurement to Develop Specific Heating-Up Procedures for Industrial Furnaces

Abstract

The proper drying and initial heating-up of monolithic furnace linings is a task that has to be accomplished by the refractory producer, the aluminium producer and not the least by the heating-up service team. A too quick dry-out procedure of the refractory lining can cause critical vapour pressures within the refractories that exceed their tensile strength. As a result typical explosions, spalling or cracks can occur. On the other hand a very slow and cautious procedure causes a loss of aluminium production and consequently a loss of money. To consider both arguments most of the plants are working with a compromised heating-up program. In the given paper a new online steam pressure measuring method is presented, that allows a safe, fast and economical heating-up of industrial furnaces. Based on laboratory setups and by the help of an industrial test this novel method will be explained and discussed.