Advanced technology ladle preheater research, development, field test and commercialization program. Annual report

The objective of this project is to develop a cost effective, reliable heating system that will improve gas utilization efficiencies. The Phase I prototype THERMECON (tm) Ladle Heater System was successfully designed, fabricated, and field tested during the year. Extensive baseline performance testing of the prototype THERMECON system versus a conventional horizontally positioned ladle heater system was completed. The prototype THERMECON system heated the ladle faster, hotter, and with less energy than the conventional heaters, in addition to other improved performance factors. The temperature uniformity of the refractory surface heated by the THERMECON system was much improved over typical conventional systems.