Oxy-Fuel Glass Furnace: Energy Efficient Glass Production Solution by China Suppliers and Factory
Description
REFTECH oxyfuel furnaces are specially designed for the particular characteristics of firing a furnace with fuel and oxygen. Especially the reduced flue gas volume requires a modification of the superstructure design. If flat flame burners are used, the arch has to be kept relatively low, otherwise it will become too cold and this will lead to rat holes.
For longer life, the exhaust can be placed rather in direction of the middle of the furnace or even near the throat thus ensuring an adequate heating in batch charging area due to burners in this area and reducing carry-over (dust). Too high flue gas velocities in exhaust and subsequent piping can lead to difficulties in furnace pressure control and can even lead to high furnace pressure due to insufficient flue gas flow rate.
Cold spots would lead to damages due to the infiltration of alkalis which cause burnouts in the arch, thus leading to reduced furnace life. To avoid such problems the REFTECH® oxyfuel furnaces are therefore adequately insulated and sealed. In general oxyfuel furnaces are used for a melting output of 50 – 400 t/d, in some special cases as small as 2 t/d specialty glass. The maximum furnace size is approximately the same as for regenerative cross-fired furnaces, i.e. 750 t/d.
Features
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do REFTECH oxyfuel furnaces require a modified superstructure design?
The modification is required due to the reduced flue gas volume characteristic of firing a furnace with fuel and oxygen. Additionally, if flat flame burners are used, the arch must be kept relatively low to prevent it from becoming too cold and forming rat holes.
How does exhaust placement affect the furnace performance?
Placing the exhaust towards the middle of the furnace or near the throat ensures adequate heating in the batch charging area via local burners, which helps reduce batch carry-over (dust) and extends the furnace lifetime.
What causes cold spots and how are they prevented?
Cold spots are caused by the infiltration of alkalis, which lead to burnouts in the arch and reduce furnace life. To prevent this, REFTECH® oxyfuel furnaces are engineered with high-quality insulation and proper sealing.
What is the typical melting output capacity of these furnaces?
Generally, they support a melting output of 50 to 400 tonnes per day (t/d). However, specialty glass configurations can be as small as 2 t/d, while the maximum size can reach up to approximately 750 t/d.
What are the main economic and environmental benefits of this system?
Key benefits include lower investment costs for refractories and flue gas equipment, reduced energy consumption and NOx emissions, higher melting surface load, high glass quality, and a shorter time from glass to glass.