Batch forge furnaces

In a batch forge furnace, the space above the load(s) was held at 2250 F, wall to wall. High-velocity stirring burners were fired between the 8 in. tall piers supporting the load(s). The burners were operated with fuel turndown only to minimize the concentration of triatomic molecules while inducing a high mass of inert gas from above the load. The wall-to-wall temperature drop under the product was very low—a maximum of 6°C (3.3°C). Chapter 8 discusses temperature uniformity in more detail. 

TABLE 6.3 Benefits of automatic furnace pressure controi—A case history. Batch forging furnace heating 5200 ib (2364 kg) of 3.9 in. (0.1 m) diameter steel parts to 2400 F (1316 C) with natural gas. Ceramic fiber walls 8" (0.2 m) thick. 

---