Hatch has developed a novel tapblock fiber-optic temperature-measurement system to provide accurate readings during furnace operation from previously inaccessible locations. Optical gratings are used to measure temperatures on the hot face and in the tapping channel, providing the operator with enough information to assess refractory health.
Knowing the extent of refractory wear:
- enables condition-based maintenance
- decreases the risk of uncontrolled taps and steam explosions
When compared to current thermocouple technology, the Tapblock Fiber-Optic Temperature System is a significant advance in tapblock monitoring.
Features of the system include:
- a substantial increase in spatial resolution (on the order of 100 temperature readings per tapblock)
- superior sensitivity and accuracy
- immunity to electrical interference near an arc furnace
- minimal intrusion into the tapblock
The Tapblock Fiber-Optic Temperature System is currently in use at Lonmin Platinum, South Africa. A new tapblock wears over time, indicated by increased sensor temperatures. This level of detail was previously unachievable when diagnosing tapblock health.
