Prototyping and Industrial Testing of Novel Non-Consumable Thermocouples/Sensor Holders in Molten Steel

Secondary metallurgy is the most value adding step in the steelmaking process. As more sophisticated steel grades are developed, better process control is required to adjust and monitor properties of molten steel in secondary metallurgy. Improved process control also serves to increase productivity and profitability of steel mills. In steelmaking, process control is achieved through feedback from sensors. Unfortunately, existing state-of-the-art sensors for molten steel are consumable, unreliable, and provide limited measurements. This is a major barrier that must be overcome to improve secondary metallurgy processes, productivity, and profitability. This research project prototypes and industrially tests novel non-consumable thermocouple/sensor holders for use in molten steel. Prototyping follows from developments and testing of candidate materials on the laboratory scale. New design, joining, and manufacturing methods will be developed to utilize candidate materials on a larger scale. Experiments will be performed at a Canadian steel mill under steelmaking conditions. Scientific characterization, investigation, and data analysis follows from tested prototypes. The project aims to commercialize advanced materials, improve prosperity of the Canadian steel industry, and place Canada as a recognized innovator in advanced manufacturing.

Faculty Supervisor:

Gisele Azimi

Student:

William Judge

Partner:

Tenova Goodfellow Inc

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Toronto