Silicomanganese production and the potential for chemical reaction as wear mechanism in the tap-hole area

This study focuses on the tap-hole wear profile in submerged arc furnaces (SAFs) used for silicomanganese production, expanding on previous work by incorporating mass-transfer calculations to evaluate the potential extent of wear through chemical reactions. The objective was to elucidate the wear mechanisms present at the tap-hole interface where operational conditions allow for variable chemical interactions. A comprehensive approach was employed, which involved thermodynamic calculations alongside empirical analysis of refractory materials and their interactions within the furnace environment. The results indicated that certain chemical reactions could significantly contribute to the wear of the tap-hole, providing new insights into material selection and design strategies that could mitigate wear rates. By identifying the phases present in the slag and their compositions through advanced analytical techniques, this research adds valuable knowledge to the understanding of operational efficiency and durability of SAFs. This work serves as a reference for future designs and operational protocols, aiming to enhance the performance of silicomanganese production in industrial settings.