Control and Optimization of Melting Zone Parameters by Means of a Two-Dimensional Model in the Blast Furnace Automated Process Control System

Abstract

A two-dimensional mathematical model of BF is developed that describes gas dynamic, heat and mass transfer processes over the height and cross section of a furnace from the charging level to the iron taphole. A two-dimensional mathematical model is implemented as part of five existing MMK blast-furnace production automatic control systems for the melting zone in real time. The systems used are already installed in the furnaces as means of automation, microprocessor and computer engineering. Continuous automatic control and quantitative evaluation of the parameters of the melting zone (MZ) shape, location, and thickness are provided. This makes it possible to compare these MZ parameters with smelting input and output parameters, reveal their effect on the melting parameters and to estimate them quantitatively, and to conduct continuous automatic monitoring of changes in MZ parameters in time. It is shown that a change in the shape of the MZ (increasing the angle at the periphery and axis of the furnace), its ascent over the height of the furnace (from the line of the combustion zone), and an increase in its thickness worsen furnace performance. Values of the MZ parameters are established that provide the best smelting indices. Continuous automatic monitoring of changes in MZ parameters over time and comparison of results with trends in the change of smelting parameters make it possible to identify the causes of disruption in BF operation and take timely measures to overcome them.