Introduction
The horizontal rotary furnace is a type of furnaces used for melting and refining metals for various industrial processes. The furnaces are designed for continuous operation, with automated controls to ensure safe, efficient operation. The furnaces come in various sizes and configurations, depending on its intended use and material being melted or refined.
Construction
The horizontal rotary furnace is constructed from steel or cast iron, with linings of various materials, including refractory brick, isostatic graphite, and precast refractory blocks. It is designed for safe, efficient operation and has safety features such as temperature sensors and limit switches to monitor the furnace temperature and prevent overtemperature conditions. The furnace is mounted on a steel frame and may be installed in a recessed foundation.
Operation
The furnace operates by heating material contained within its cylindrical chamber. Heating is done with a combination of electromagnetic induction and gas combustion, with fuel sources ranging from natural gas, propane, or a combination of both. The furnace can reach temperatures of up to 2400°F and is used to melt or refine metal alloys, as well as ceramic materials.
Advantages
The horizontal rotary furnace offers a number of advantages over other types of furnace designs, including greater operating temperature range, higher productivity and lower operating costs. The furnace is designed to be automated and energy efficient, with low emissions through the use of natural gas, propane, or a combination of both.
Disadvantages
The primary limitation of the horizontal rotary furnace is its limited size, which is typically capable of melting small batches of metal only. This limits the furnace’s use to small-scale operations. The furnaces are also relatively slow to heat materials, compared to other high-temperature furnaces such as arc or induction furnaces.
Conclusion
The horizontal rotary furnace is a popular furnace design for melting and refining metals in a variety of industrial applications. Its advantages include high operating temperature range, higher productivity, and lower operating costs. Its limitations include limited size and slow heating time, which limit its use to small-scale operations.
