Determining Thermal Characteristics of an Oil-Fired Crucible Furnace Using Clay and Alumina Bricks
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Date
2020
Authors
Owolabi, O.B.
Osoba, L.O.
Adeosun, S.O.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The Journal of the Association of Professional Engineers of Trinidad and Tobago
Abstract
This paper explores the results of an experimental study that was intended to determine the thermal characteristics of
an oil-fired crucible furnace using clay and alumina bricks. For the study, a refractory with 0.03118m3 combustion chamber
capacity was used. The bricks analysis were carried out under transient condition that would be appropriate for laboratory and
workshop with a capacity to reach 950oC within 20 minutes for aluminum and nonferrous scrap re-melting. The performance of
the furnace was evaluated, and the results showed that the furnace can operate at a heating rate of 49.44°C/min, with a 29.70%
efficiency determined, and which was within the efficiency range of conventional furnace. The heat transfer coefficient of
4.48W/m2K was obtained. Alumina bricks used in lining the furnace was attributable to its higher refractoriness. It was found
that a better thermal shock was proved than clay bricks from the Comparative analysis simulation using commercial software
ANSYS 14.0 aimed towards improving service life and efficiency.
Description
Keywords
Aluminum, Secondary smelting, Refractory Bricks, crucible furnace, thermal efficiency, heat transfer coefficient
Citation
Owolabi, O.B. Osoba, L.O. Adeosun, S.O. (2020). Determining Thermal Characteristics of an Oil-Fired Crucible Furnace Using Clay and Alumina Bricks. The Journal of the Association of Professional Engineers of Trinidad and Tobago; 48(1): 49-55