Blowing Lance Vibration Sensor Positioning for BOF Slag Detection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for detecting slag conditions in Basic Oxygen Furnace (BOF) converters using lance vibrations suffer from low accuracy and signal-to-noise ratio due to external measurement disturbances and influence from non-process variables, with sensors being prone to heat and dust damage.
Innovation Solution
A vibration sensor is positioned within the blowing lance, specifically at its lower end, to measure lance vibrations, reducing external interference and improving measurement accuracy by isolating the sensor from non-process variables, and is protected by routing measuring lines and using fiber-optic communication for reliable data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If vibration sensors are positioned outside the blowing lance (on lance carriage or dome), then the sensors are protected from heat and dust damage, but the measurement accuracy and signal-to-noise ratio are reduced due to external disturbances and non-process variables
Solution Approach 1:
The vibration sensor is extracted from the external environment (lance carriage or dome) and positioned inside the blowing lance, removing it from the harmful external conditions while maintaining its measurement function. This extraction allows the sensor to measure vibrations directly at the source without external disturbances.
Solution Approach 2:
The blowing lance itself serves as an intermediary structure that protects the vibration sensor from heat and dust while allowing the sensor to measure vibrations internally. The lance acts as a shield or mediator between the sensor and the harmful external environment.
2Measurement precision
If vibration sensors are positioned within the blowing lance, then the signal-to-noise ratio and measurement accuracy are improved by eliminating external disturbances, but the sensors become exposed to heat and dust damage
Solution Approach 1:
The harmful factors (heat and dust) are effectively extracted or removed from the sensor's immediate environment by positioning the sensor inside the lance structure, which provides a protected internal environment while maintaining measurement capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The lance structure serves as an intermediary barrier that protects the sensor from heat and dust while allowing vibration measurements to be taken. The lance material and structure act as a shield between the sensor and the harmful converter environment.
3Ease of manufacture
If vibration measurements are taken on the lance carriage, then the sensors can be easily replaced and are thermally protected, but the vibrations have small amplitude and are influenced by process-independent variables
Solution Approach 1:
The measurement function is extracted from the lance carriage to the blowing lance itself, allowing measurements to be taken at the optimal location (lance head) where vibration amplitudes are highest and process information is most direct.
Solution Approach 2:
The blowing lance serves as an intermediary measurement platform that provides both protection for the sensor and optimal measurement conditions at the lance head, eliminating the need to compromise between ease of replacement and measurement quality.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach enhances the signal-to-noise ratio and accuracy of vibration measurements, allowing for precise determination of slag conditions and improved management of the converter process, reducing the risk of slag ejection and extending sensor lifespan.
Implementation Method 1
a vibration sensor being provided according to the invention for detecting the lance vibrations within the lance
Data Source
Figure 1~2
AI summary
The invention relates to a blowing lance (2) for a BOF converter. A vibration sensor (5) is provided within the blowing lance (2) in order to detect the lance vibrations.