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Tap-Hole Life Cycle Design Criteria: A Case Study Based on Silicomanganese Production

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Abstract

Managing the tapping of furnaces is a challenge to most furnace operators. As a hole is made in the refractory lining and re-filled with clay, several times a day, the tap-hole is one of the weak spots in the refractory lining. Tap-hole failures are high-risk events, and steps should be taken to minimize the risks. Designing for the life–cycle of the tap-hole is proposed and discussed as a way of minimizing the risks associated with tap-hole failure. Design criteria are proposed not only for a total reline and normal operation but also for emergency conditions, as well as maintenance, and repair of the tap-hole. The criteria are discussed in the context of silicomanganese production in South Africa.

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Acknowledgements

This paper is published with the permission of Mintek—after being reviewed internally by Herman Lagendijk, Dr. Quinn Reynolds, and Markus Erwee—and Transalloys.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. MINTEK, 200 Malibongwe Drive, Randburg, South Africa

    J. D. Steenkamp & D. A. Hayman

  2. Transalloys Pty (Ltd), Emalahleni, 1034, Mpumalanga, South Africa

    J. J. Sutherland

  3. Algoness, Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa

    J. Muller

Authors
  1. J. D. Steenkamp
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  2. J. J. Sutherland
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  3. D. A. Hayman
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  4. J. Muller
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Correspondence to J. D. Steenkamp.

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Steenkamp, J.D., Sutherland, J.J., Hayman, D.A. et al. Tap-Hole Life Cycle Design Criteria: A Case Study Based on Silicomanganese Production. JOM 68, 1547–1555 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11837-016-1862-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11837-016-1862-9

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