Shengli Jin

Thermomechanical modelling of a torpedo car by considering working lining spalling

ABSTRACT Lining spalling can occur in metallurgical vessels since their working linings experience intense thermomechanical loads in service. It is necessary to consider the spalling phenomenon in the thermomechanical modelling to better understand the thermomechanical behaviour of refractory linings. The present study introduces a stepwise volumetric loss method to consider spalling during process cycles, to examine the influence of insulating materials on the thermal and thermomechanical behaviour of the refractory lining of a torpedo car. The results reveal that the application of proper insulating materials with strong insulation effect decreases the heat loss, thermal shock intensity, and joint opening at the hot face although the joint opening during refining stages worsens when severe spalling occurs in certain cycles. The application of compliant insulating materials gives rise to mild thermomechanical loads in the steel shell.