WCA May 2019

Industry news

Furnaces play key role in energy consumption

FURNACES are crucial equipment in Upcast ® continuous casting lines in order to ensure high-quality process and end product. They also play a key role in energy consumption. The optimised use of energy decreases heat losses and production costs. Energy consumption is the biggest individual cost factor in the production process. Typically, energy consumption is approximately 58 to 67 per cent of the overall production costs. What impacts consumption are the type of furnace and the inductor attached to the furnace, as well as the furnace lining materials. With the right combination of furnace type, inductor and furnace lining, energy consumption can be minimised. “It is essential to choose the right combination of these factors suitable for each product and capacity,” said Janne Hosio, Upcast Oy’s sales manager. “There is always a certain amount of energy loss in the furnace, and if the line is not run with full capacity, the losses increase in relation per produced ton. Energy usage is always at its most efficient when run with the production rate specifically designed and calculated for the line.” The capacity requirements vary a lot, and as a result of this, Upcast has designed new sizes of furnaces to meet the various requirements of its customers.

Upcast has long experience with the technology of casting lines. Additionally, continuous development work has been accomplished, based on the actual values of existing lines. As a result, it has been possible for the company to develop a more efficient and wider product range for Upcast customers. Upcast Oy – Finland Website : www.upcast.com ❍ Furnaces are crucial equipment in Upcast continuous casting lines

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Wire & Cable ASIA – May/June 2019