Title

CAMPAIGN LIFE ASSESSMENT AND DESIGN IMPROVEMENT OF BASIC OXYGEN FURNACES

CAMPAIGN LIFE ASSESSMENT AND DESIGN IMPROVEMENT OF BASIC OXYGEN FURNACES

Authorship

Soltys, Cameron Alexander; Jarrett, Samantha; Ghorbani, Hamid; Cappel, Jürgen

Soltys, Cameron Alexander

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Jarrett, Samantha

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Ghorbani, Hamid

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Cappel, Jürgen

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DOI

10.5151/2594-5300-39887

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Abstract

Basic oxygen furnace converters in integrated steelmaking facilities are exposed to severe operating conditions, often beyond the original design conditions. Safety risks and unplanned shutdowns associated with failure of this equipment can impose significant costs and operational disruptions. Inspections, root cause analysis of damage, fitness-for-service assessment, and repair development are critical for the reliable operation of this equipment. Thermo-mechanical analysis can be performed using finite element analysis tools to more accurately quantify the extent of damage and identify the root cause of damage in this equipment. Understanding the mechanisms that influence the lifespan of refractory and converters provides the opportunity to identify design improvements. These improvements can extend the life of an existing converter or increase the life of a replacement converter. This methodology enables creative and well-engineered solutions to be developed to optimize the converter design and operation to meet the specific business and production needs of a steel plant.

Basic oxygen furnace converters in integrated steelmaking facilities are exposed to severe operating conditions, often beyond the original design conditions. Safety risks and unplanned shutdowns associated with failure of this equipment can impose significant costs and operational disruptions. Inspections, root cause analysis of damage, fitness-for-service assessment, and repair development are critical for the reliable operation of this equipment. Thermo-mechanical analysis can be performed using finite element analysis tools to more accurately quantify the extent of damage and identify the root cause of damage in this equipment. Understanding the mechanisms that influence the lifespan of refractory and converters provides the opportunity to identify design improvements. These improvements can extend the life of an existing converter or increase the life of a replacement converter. This methodology enables creative and well-engineered solutions to be developed to optimize the converter design and operation to meet the specific business and production needs of a steel plant.

Keywords

Basic oxygen furnace; Root cause assessment; Campaign life extension; Design improvements

Basic oxygen furnace; Root cause assessment; Campaign life extension; Design improvements