Superheating of HBC blast air

Reduced coke consumption and increased efficiency of the process. 

Electrical heating causes an increase in electricity consumption (58 kWh/torme). 

Operational data are given in Annex 1. The heating of the blast air produces a lower flue-gas volume as compared to hot blast long campaign operation. As compared to oxygen injection, the flue-gas volume and electricity consumption is larger. 

The technique (both with electrical and plasma heating) achieves a similar effect as injection of oxygen through the lances, but can be applied in a more complex installation and produces a larger flue-gas volume. Additionally, oxygen injection allows make-up for leaks in the air circuit. 

Three foundries in France apply tubular resistance heating. 

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