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Coke Guide - Coke Temperature Profile

Coke ovens are used to convert coal to coke.  In this process, coal is heated in a reduced atmosphere for about 18 hours, allowing volatile compounds to burn off, producing a hard, porous, and high-carbon material called coke.  Ovens are grouped side-by-side to form a battery. The oven walls are heated by flues embedded within the refractory walls.  The coal is inserted in batches through charging holes on the top of the oven.  The coke is removed using a pusher on one side, and a coke guide on the other.  As it is removed from the oven, the coke is guided into a quench car that carries it into position beneath the quench tower.  The hot coke is quenched to near-ambient temperatures, and then carried by conveyor to a docking area near the blast furnace.

 

Benefits

  • Automatic thermal management feedback for heat distribution within coke furnace battery.
  • Prevents cold spots.
  • Eliminates cost and excessive refractory wear associated with hot spots.
  • Confirms coke furnace is being fully filled.

 

As the coke is pushed from the oven, it passes through the coke guide.  Dual-wavelength fiber-optic infrared thermometers are mounted at various heights along the coke guide to monitor the uniformity of the coke temperature.  The coke temperature is correlated with the pusher position, and a thermal profile of the temperature within the coke oven is obtained.  A consistently cold spot indicates a clogged flue, and corrective action may be taken.  A consistently hot spot indicates excessive local heating of the coke resulting in premature refractory wear and excessive fuel usage.  The top-most sensor provides assurances that the coke oven was properly filled when a valid measurement is obtained.

 

Technical Features

  • Dual-wavelength technology compensates for dirty optics.
  • Dual-wavelength technology compensates for misalignment.
  • Fiber optic sensor configuration protects sensor electronics from hostile environmental conditions.

 

A dual-wavelength fiber optic sensor is recommended for this demanding application in order to survive this hot, dirty and dusty environment.  The high signal dilution capability allows the Williamson dual-wavelength sensor to thrive in this difficult environment.