Severstal has implemented a mathematical model to analyze the resistance of blast furnace material layers to gas flow, enhancing its blast furnace expert system.
“As part of our R&D efforts, we upgraded our laboratory equipment and conducted experiments to measure the resistance of charge materials to gas flow. The resulting algorithms will help optimize furnace loading and blast furnace smelting, aligning with Severstal’s strategy of using higher iron ore pellet ratios and increased natural gas consumption to reduce environmental impact,” said Evgeny Vinogradov, General Director of Severstal Russian Steel Division and Resource Assets.
The R&D project, conducted in partnership with Cherepovets State University (ChSU), involved upgrading laboratory units at Severstal’s Raw Materials Research Center and developing an algorithm to calculate gas flow resistance in multi-component charge layers (pellets, agglomerate, coke). This will contribute to the development of an expert system, a digital twin of the blast furnace. Severstal’s blast furnace expert system analyzes chemical and gas-blast parameters, providing real-time recommendations for furnace management. Acting as a digital assistant, the software integrates mathematical models and operator expertise, offering a centralized platform for processed data to optimize iron smelting operations.