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ORGANIZER;CN=ESTAD 2023:mailto:info@metec-estad.com
LOCATION:Room 18a
SUMMARY:Experience with specialized infrared camera coupled with IR imaging and process control software for VTD operations
DESCRIPTION:The vacuum tank degassing process (VTD) is used by steel makers worldwide to produce steel grades that must meet stringent customer quality requirements. Balancing VTD productivity while achieving the proper vacuum treatment level is a challenge, especially for deep vacuum treatment (~ 1 Torr or 133 Pa). Maintaining the proper freeboard is an important process parameter. If the rate of gas evolution is too great, the steel can foam up and over the ladle lip causing an overflow event resulting in safety concerns and downtime for cleanup or maintenance. 

This paper will discuss implementation and operational results of specialized Infrared (IR) camera/lens technology coupled with IR imaging and process control software for VTD operations. The system provides a real time view of critical molten metal behavior, stirring intensity, freeboard, metal level and rate of rise during the VTD process thereby enabling control software to avoid an overflow event.

The specialized IR camera/lens system provides a clear image of the ladle and molten metal undisturbed by flame and flare. This requires strategic placement of the lens tip within the vacuum chamber, maximizing survivability while not compromising the gas-tight seal required to achieve deep vacuum treatment conditions.

The IR image processing is performed real time. This yields an accurate determination of the metal level with respect to the ladle lip. The rate of rise is measurable, enabling a prediction of an imminent overflow event. Thereby the operator is alerted to the situation in time for corrective actions to be taken. Computer model verification is achieved by comparing alarm predictions to actual overflow events. Adjustable settings tune the model’s sensitivity to the specific installation. Future work includes implementing closed loop control to avoid the overflow event. 

CLASS:PUBLIC
DTSTART:20230614T113000
DTEND:20230614T115000
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