SlagTracker

SlagTracker Brochure in PDF Format

Experienced operators have long detected vibration differences between steel and slag flow on the ladle shroud manipulator arm. Developed by Nupro Corporation, the SlagTracker ladle to tundish slag detector uses these differences to predict the onset of slag carryover. Vortex formation and other flow disturbances are also tracked and a complete picture of ladle teem out is recorded and archived for later review.

In casting operations, the lack of reliable and consistent monitoring of slag carry-over from ladle to tundish can have a serious effect on yield and steel quality. During sequence casting, slag entrainment in the steel stream at the end of heats leads to build-up in the thickness of tundish slag. The results can be:

-inclusions in the steel, poor quality

-reduced tundish refractory life

-nozzle clogging, reduced productivity

-increased break-out frequency

Increasing ladle heel by shutting off early may reduce the amount of tundish slag, but is not desirable. The resulting yield loss can have a significant negative impact on productivity,  steel shop capacity, and overall cost.

The SlagTracker System: Reliable & Consistent

An accelerometer mounted on the shroud manipulator arm sends amplified signals to the system that filters and digitally processes the signals through a proprietary software package. There are no sensors required on the ladles. The system is fully automatic, non-intrusive, and is customized and tuned on site to meet the specific needs of each casting operation. The SlagTracker can be fully integrated to the caster PLC and Level II plant systems. Implementation is fast and maintenance costs are low. The SlagTracker is the lowest cost and most reliable slag detection system available today. Optimum ladle shutoff is consistently provided for each heat based on steel grade, caster parameters and customer goals.

A Sample of Benefits Reported at Various Casters:

yield loss (steel left in ladle) reduced by over 60%
heats on sequence increased by 20%
improved steel cleanliness, sliver defects down by 50%
improved tundish refractory life, up to 40%
reduced nozzle clogging, improved productivity
minimal maintenance costs, no caster downtime required
prevention of slag-induced breakouts
typical payback less than one year

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