Flow conditions and wear in blast furnace hearths

Hearth life isa decisive factor for the economic efficiency of the blast furnace process and the production of hot metal as it has a prominent influence on the duration of blast furnace campaigns. Different lining concepts are explained and evaluated, and several important findings from research on the topic of flow conditions and wear in blast furnace hearths are discussed. Hearth wear was the subject of direct simulation in a physical model developed by Betriebsforschungsinstitut, and was compared with the wear profile of a selected blast furnace currently operating at Thyssen Krupp Stahl AG. The influence of different parameters on the flow conditions in the hearth and on hearth drainage were additionally examined by mathematical simulation. The physical conditions in blast furnace hearths have hereby become more understandable. With due consideration given to operating data and experience, it can be said that the use of simulation methods constitutes a suitable means for developing specific operational measures with a view to enhancing the tapping technique and prolonging the hearth life.