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Taphole life is a critical factor in the performance of basic oxygen (BOF) and electric arc furnaces (EAF). Technology such as the pneumatic slag stopper dictate a fundamental look at product technology and materials to optimise life.
BOF Taphole
EAF Taphole
Pneumatic Slag Stopper
Vesuvius supplies pressed taphole sleeve segments and isostatically pressed, single-piece taphole sleeves for both BOF and EAF applications.
These are available in concentric bore and straight bore variants, depending on the customer’s requirement.
The pressed segments can be supplied as a pre-assembled sleeve or as individual segments for assembly at the customer site.
The increasing popularity of the BOF pneumatic slag stopper, as well as the overall requirement for increased taphole performance and reduced BOF and EAF downtime has motivated Vesuvius to develop high performance taphole products with:
- improved thermal shock resistance,
- excellent oxidation resistance,
- and good erosion and corrosion resistance
Significant R&D work has been carried out to optimise the properties of materials used in taphole applications to enhance physical and thermomechanical properties, as well as improve slag corrosion resistance:
High Performance Taphole
COROSION RESISTANCE
Optimised granulometry
High purity graphite
High quality fused magnesia
EROSION RESISTANCE
Optimised granulometry
Matrix modifying additives
THERMAL SHOCK RESISTANCE
Optimised granulometry
Matrix modifying additives
Premium Bond binder system
OXIDATION RESISTANCE
Optimised granulometry
Premium Bond binder system
Metallic antioxidants
Premium Bond Binder Technology
The new developments for taphole applications utilise the previously developed Premium Bond binder technology, the key attributes of which are:
- Low toxicity – Free Phenol Content <0.1%;
- Non Ageing – Consistent Properties;
- Reduced Hot Modulus of Elasticity;
- High Work of Fracture;
- Reduced Thermal Expansion (First Cycle);
- Improved Oxidation Resistance.
The use of Premium Bond to enhance thermo-mechanical performance will give extended taphole performance
