Fixed-Head System Fixed-Position Installation for "Always-On" Measurement Capability For converter and ladle applications, fixed position installation coupled with the high measurement speed of the LCS enables measurements after every heat with little or no loss of process time. The automated measurement approach provides the following benefits: Push- button measurement availability Heat to heat assessment of refractory wear Detection of sudden variations in wear patterns, with direct relation to changes in process Prediction and scheduling of maintenance in advance of the immediate need for repairs, In converter applications, heat-to-heat lance height control.

Each installation is custom engineered for your application and space availability. To avoid conflicts with hot metal and scrap charging, converter tap side measurement locations are typical. Solutions anchored to the tap floor, building columns, or in the hood area are all possible; the principle design goal is to place the sensor as close to the vessel mouth as possible to maximize the field of view into the vessel.

System specifications:

System weight:	70 kg (155 lbs)
Dimensions:	Height (approx): 76 cm (30”) Diameter (approx): 44 cm (17”)
Cooling system:	Water cooling of both instrument and enclosure Downstream outlet water pressure should not exceed 0.1-0.3 Bar (7.5 PSI) to avoid possibility of over pressuring the enclosure. Specific cooling water requirements will be provided within 2 weeks of securing the bid award.
Temperature/heat load tolerance:	-10–50 C (15–124 F). System should be located within 3-4 m (8-12 feet) of the ladle mouth, and withstands heat load immediately after tapping.
Mounting	Specific mounting instructions and input for design of heat shield will be provided by Process Metrix after award of contract.
Connectivity:	Ethernet Ethernet. All cabling must be housed in conduit. Process Metrix will supply cable, runs within two weeks of receiving the bid award
Electrical:	All systems are capable of operation on 220V, 50 Hz power
Gas purge:	The water-cooled instrument enclosure should be gas purged to prevent contamination of the instrument and internal systems. Given the high humidity ratio of available air, nitrogen should be used as the purge gas to prevent moisture condensation on cooled, interior surfaces.
ECU:	Houses the local power supply, system electronics board, and Ethernet hub. Interfaces all cabling between computer, ranging head and ladle inclinometer. Includes Vortec cooler (recommend operation on nitrogen). Provides cooling as required for consistent temperature operation in high temperature environments.

An Ethernet link enables fast, long distance transmission between the computer and optical head. For most applications, the computer can be placed in the control room or other suitable structure away from the vessel that is local to the operator.

Schematic of a typically configured, fixed-head installation.

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For more information on the Laser Contouring System, Contact

Michel Bonin, Ph.D.
mbonin@processmetrix.com
voice: (925) 460-0385 x112