Numerical simulation of the transient heat transfer in a blast furnace main trough during its complete campaign cycle

To achieve higher blast furnace (BF) main trough availability and to minimize the frequency of reparations is a key concern in steelmaking industry. For this purpose, strategies assess refractory wear are required, which heavily influenced by temperature linings. In work, mathematical model transient behaviour cross-section BF during complete campaign presented. The scope investigate effect that casting stops have on trough. A sequence problems corresponding each tapping subsequent stop determined using process data BF. open-source finite element computing platform FEniCS employed solve model. discretization numerical algorithm been presented validated with manufactured solution test previous work. results show these cycles non-negligible, preventing bulk solid layers from reaching steady state. Qualitative agreement measurements obtained thermocouples embedded observed. Since there significant degree uncertainty concerning placement devices, minimization problem adjust their positions within feasible regions proposed. At identified positions, good levels fit between measured computed temperatures achieved. decreases towards end cycle, being suggestive severe wear, especially at laterals