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Operating Procedures for Ladle Refining Furnaces

Nov 6th,2025 125 Views

Operating Procedures for Ladle Refining Furnaces

The ladle refining furnace is a crucial piece of metallurgical equipment employed to refine molten steel produced in primary smelting furnaces, such as electric arc furnaces, open hearth furnaces, and converters. It serves to adjust the molten steel's temperature and acts as a process buffer to meet the demands of continuous casting and rolling operations. As one of the primary external refining apparatuses, the ladle furnace plays a vital role in enhancing steel quality.

Operating Procedures for Twin Ladle Furnaces

  1. Pre-Operational Safety Checks: Before initiating operations, verify the safety and reliability of the interlocking protection devices and travel switches on the ladle car.

  2. Mechanical Component Inspection: Examine the vacuum system, oxygen and hydrogen blowing mechanisms, thermal insulation, heating elements, feeding systems, and other mechanical parts. Only start the machine after confirming their safe and reliable operation.

  3. Sample Spoon and Mold Check: Ensure that the sample spoon and mold are kept dry to prevent any moisture-related issues during sampling.

  4. Station Tool Readiness: Verify that all station tools are in good working condition and easily accessible for use.

  5. Communication Setup: Establish contact with the power supply unit and vacuum control room as required to ensure coordinated operations.

  6. Safety Signaling: Activate the bell or other safety signals before driving the ladle car to alert personnel of impending movement.

  7. High-Voltage Power Transmission and Vacuum Degassing: Follow established procedures for conducting high-voltage power transmission and vacuum degassing operations.

  8. Ladle Car Track Inspection: Before starting the ladle car, inspect the track for any obstacles and remove them promptly to ensure safe movement.

  9. High-Voltage Line Safety: Refrain from passing beneath high-voltage lines after power transmission has been initiated to avoid electrical hazards.

  10. Pressure Pipe Joint Handling: When connecting or disconnecting pressure pipe joints, ensure that the valve is closed before proceeding with the operation to prevent leaks or accidents.

  11. Oxygen Usage Precautions: When using oxygen, strictly prohibit placing hands in front of the card head and avoid wearing greasy gloves to prevent fire hazards.

  12. Sampling Residue Disposal: After sampling, pour the remaining molten steel into a designated dry area to prevent spills and potential injuries.

  13. Vacuum Release Safety: During vacuum release, prohibit all personnel from approaching the air supply pipe orifices to avoid exposure to sudden pressure changes.

  14. Heating Bridge Inspection and Maintenance: When boarding the heating bridge for inspection or maintenance, pull out the high-voltage key, cut off the high-voltage power supply, and ensure the operator carries their own key for added safety.

  15. Electrode Lifting and Replacement: Assign special personnel to command electrode lifting and replacement operations. Connect the lifting ring and hook with a steel wire rope, close the hook safety, and strictly prohibit opening all three phases simultaneously for lifting and replacement to prevent accidents.

  16. Furnace Cover and Bridge Cleanliness: Do not stack objects on the furnace cover or bridge. Refrain from throwing objects up and down when working on the bridge to maintain a clean and safe working environment.

By adhering to these operating procedures, operators can ensure the safe and efficient operation of twin ladle furnaces, thereby enhancing the quality of refined steel and minimizing the risk of accidents or injuries.
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