Multi-Depth Molten Steel Sampling Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current steelmaking processes face challenges in obtaining multiple samples of molten metal from different depths due to high temperatures and pressure, limiting the ability to assess steel cleanliness and refine processing techniques effectively.
Innovation Solution
A sampling apparatus with multiple molds operatively coupled to a support structure, pressurized with gas to prevent premature sample capture, allowing immersion at various depths and rapid depressurization to collect molten metal samples without contamination, which can be analyzed for steel cleanliness and processing improvements.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Quantity of substance
If a single sampler apparatus is used to capture molten steel samples, then the sampling process is simple, but only a single sample near the slag-steel interface can be obtained
Solution Approach 1:
The sampler apparatus is divided into multiple sampling molds (first sampling mold, second sampling mold, third sampling mold) positioned at different depths. Each mold can independently capture molten steel samples at its specific depth location, enabling simultaneous multi-depth sampling without requiring multiple separate sampling operations.
Solution Approach 2:
The sampling apparatus extends vertically into the molten steel bath with sampling molds positioned at different depth levels (first mold near slag-steel interface, second mold at intermediate depth, third mold at greater depth). This vertical dimensionality allows samples to be captured from multiple depths simultaneously, transforming a single-point sampling approach into a multi-level sampling system.
2Reliability
If the sampling apparatus is immersed in molten metal to obtain samples, then samples can be captured, but contamination from the sampling apparatus may occur
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling molds are filled with an inert gas (such as argon) before immersion into the molten steel. This inert atmosphere prevents oxidation and contamination of the molten steel samples during the sampling process. The inert gas displaces air from the molds, creating a protective environment that maintains sample cleanliness throughout immersion and extraction.
Solution Approach 2:
The inert gas acts as an intermediary between the sampling molds and the molten steel. It provides a protective barrier that prevents direct contact between the mold surfaces and the molten steel, thereby preventing contamination while still allowing the sample to be captured in the mold cavity.
3Loss of information
If multiple samples are taken from different depths, then a more comprehensive understanding of steel reactions is achieved, but the sampling time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sampling molds are pre-positioned at different depth locations and pre-filled with inert gas before immersion. The support structure is configured in advance to hold the molds at the correct vertical positions. When the apparatus is immersed, samples are automatically captured at all depths simultaneously, eliminating the need for sequential sampling operations at each depth level.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple sampling molds are combined into a single integrated apparatus with a common support structure and inert gas supply system. This merging allows all sampling molds to be immersed and filled simultaneously in one operation, capturing samples at multiple depths at the same time rather than requiring separate sampling operations for each depth.
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
Enables simultaneous sampling at multiple depths within steelmaking equipment, providing a more comprehensive understanding of steel reactions and improving steel cleanliness, leading to higher quality finished products.
Implementation Method 1
The sampling apparatus is pressurized with a gas and immersed in the molten metal. After immersion to the desired depth, the sampling apparatus is depressurized
Implementation Method 2
the one or more mold stops are unsealed by the molten metal
Implementation Method 3
the captured molten metal samples are allowed to cool to solidification
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of the present invention relate to a sampling apparatus having one or more support structures and two or more sampling molds operatively coupled to the one or more support structures. The two or more sampling molds may be sealed or unsealed. The sampling apparatus is pressurized with a gas and immersed in the molten metal. The two or more sampling molds become unsealed when the mold stops at least partially melt. When the sampling apparatus is depressurized the one or more unsealed sampling molds capture one or more molten metal samples. The sampling apparatus is removed from the molten metal and the samples are removed from the sampling molds and analyzed.