8th International Congress on Science and Technology of Ironmaking - ICSTI 2018

Intensive operation of blast furnace allows increase in production of hot metal. However, furnace life could be sacrificed. CherMK and Hatch systematically monitor conditions of BF lining using Acousto Ultrasonic-Echo (AU-E) non-destructive methodology. Testing of blast furnaces revealed problematic areas with refractory deterioration, formation of elephant foot, extent of accretion and rate of refractory wear, cracks and anomalies. Improvement in coke quality, periodical staves washing, addition of titania, grouting etc. were recommended and implemented to prolong furnace life while maintaining the intensity of furnace operation. Comparison of NDT results and physical measurements showed that they are in a good agreement. Estimated rate of refractory wear allowed to predict the remaining campaign of the blast furnace and start preparation for furnace shutdown and modernization.