Innovation
Tenova Pyromet's innovative culture and extensive expertise in the PGM smelting sector have fostered a multitude of innovations, ranging from detailed design improvements that improve efficiency and reliability, through to ground-breaking changes that affect the direction of the industry.
Tenova Pyromet has developed an advanced electrode system for base metal furnaces, leveraging over 30 years of expertise in the ferroalloy and base metals industries. A key safety consideration in these applications is minimizing the use of water within the furnace and on the furnace roof. Furthermore, it is important to avoid direct contact between copper components, such as contact shoes and pressure rings, and the furnace contents.
COMPOSITE COPPER-GRAPHITE coolers are offered which provide a unique solution for the sidewalls of platinum group metal (PGM) furnaces, addressing the corrosion issues commonly affecting copper cooling elements. The innovative design ensures that all surfaces of the cooler are entirely coated with graphite, effectively preventing contact between the copper cooler and the sulfur- and chlorine-bearing species that cause corrosion.
MEGtec™ is a safe furnace cooling system offering superior cooling efficiency, combined with a reduced steam explosion risk. It is safe and cost-effective option for furnace cooling applications.
Tenova Pyromet's implementation of uncooled Meehanite ® matte taphole faceplates significantly enhances safety by eliminating the presence of water near the molten matte stream. This design choice mitigates the risk of dangerous steam explosions and water-induced thermal stresses, ensuring a safer operational environment. By removing water from this critical area, the potential for accidental contact between water and molten materials is effectively minimized, thereby reducing overall safety hazards.
The SlagFlo™ control valve is engineered to regulate the flow of molten slag, effectively managing the tapping rate. Additionally, it has proven to be a reliable tool for remotely closing the slag tap-hole during both normal operations and emergency situations. The valve features a water-cooled copper element that is hydraulically operated and directly attached to the slag tap-hole. This compact, easy-to-maintain, and cost-effective equipment can be retrofitted to most existing slag tap-holes with minimal modifications.
AutoFurn™ controls the electric furnace power input and the electrode movements and positioning. The controller software is continuously developed to meet the requirements and demands of each new furnace installation. AutoFurn™ has been successfully installed on PGM, recycling, FeMn, SiMn, Si metal, Ferrochrome, Mineral Wool, Nickel and Copper furnaces. It benefits our clients through automated control of the electrode position relative to changing bath levels, ensuring effective power input and process optimisation. AutoFurn™ can be retrofitted on existing furnaces, seamlessly integrating with existing control systems.