Three zone horizontal tube furnace is being used to simulate manufacturing conditions on newly developed grades of steel wire
A 1200C, three zone horizontal tube furnace from Elite Thermal Systems is providing big benefits at the Corus Technology Centre Swinden Laboratory, where it is being used to simulate manufacturing conditions on newly developed grades of steel wire. Previously this research was carried out in two tube furnaces, but a lack of temperature uniformity over the heated length meant that the results obtained could become unreliable.
Senior research assistant Peter Brownlow, looking for a solution, approached several specialist manufacturers of research furnaces for advice.
"Elite responded very quickly and with the most positive approach," said Brownlow.
"It was obvious from the outset that they had the experience to understand our precise requirements and could supply a furnace, which would meet our needs".
The new Elite 50mm bore three-zone tube furnace has a maximum temperature of 1200C and total heated zone length of 610mm.
Each zone is independently controlled by its own thermocouple and PID controller, which makes the system control very stable and precise.
"This degree of control, together with a number of other innovative features, makes the furnace ideal for simulating the manufacturing conditions", said Alf Roberts, managing director of Elite Thermal Systems.
"Graded low thermal mass insulation provides rapid response times and optimum thermal efficiency and an outer mesh case cover promotes natural air-cooling for maximum operator safety," he added. "We are delighted with the new Elite furnace", said Brownlow.
"It is more accurate, responsive and can easily handle all our work.
"We required a temperature uniformity of +/-5C along the heated length but, in fact, it is much tighter than this.
"We are also glad we took Elite's advice and included a Fe Cr Al work tube.
"We had problems with thermal shock on the previous design and had to keep replacing the work tube, but this is no longer a problem.
"The Elite team were very professional and had a practical appreciation of our requirements.
"In fact we have been so impressed with the furnace that we ordered a second for other projects.
