An Integrated Design Strategy for Dust Collection and Slurry Transport Systems and Implementation in a Steel Plant

Abstract

Dust collection and slurry transportation systems are essential for effective collection and removal of metallic and dust fines. These are mainly used to eliminate pollution, recover water that is reused in the core steel process, and to capture solids which can be used in the raw material processes of making reduced iron. However, maintenance of slurry transportation systems is not only complex but also expensive, if not designed properly. This paper presents an integrated slurry transportation design strategy for greater performance, less maintenance and increased reliability thus resulting in effective asset management. This design has been implemented and successfully tested in an existing Steel plant. Experience suggests that the asset management is not merely a maintenance activity however methodical it may be. Although periodical maintenance cannot be totally eliminated, specifically in cases with slurry transport systems, the suggested approach in this paper uses a thoughtful design strategy with emphasis on safeguarding the environment, simplified routine maintenance and efficient system operation.