Gimbal Top, the new top-charging system from Siemens, will be installed in a blast furnace for the first time. An order was placed with Metals Technologies (MT), a division of the Siemens Group Industrial Solutions and Services (I&S), by the Indian steel producer Tata Steel. The project is part of the scheduled re-build of Tata Steel's 'C' Blast Furnace at Jamshedpur in Jharkhand province, India. The scope of the contract also includes material hopper, valves and the associated Level 1 automation control for the furnace top.
The new Gimbal Top charging system utilises a conical distribution chute which is supported by rings in a gimbal arrangement. This tilting chute is driven by hydraulic cylinders, operating through shafts, connecting rods and universal joints in order to drive the gimbal rings. Independent or combined operation of the cylinders enables the chute axis to be directed to any angle and along any desired path. This allows a precise material distribution to be achieved with the potential for an infinite number of charging patterns at varying speeds. Control of the distribution chute is by means of a proprietary control and feedback system which is fully integrated in the overall blast furnace charging software.
New Gimbal Top blast furnace top-charging system from Siemens
This simple and rugged design, proven in high temperature and pressure operations, is ideally suited for the blast furnace. Unlike other market alternatives, it provides total flexibility in material distribution, enabling customers to make significant cost savings and benefit from improvements in blast furnace operation and maintenance.
The gimbal technology proven in the arduous environment of Corex, Finex and direct-reduction plants, is now to be installed in a blast furnace for the first time. Geoff Wingrove, director for Iron & Steel at Siemens said: "We are delighted that Tata Steel has become the first steel producer in the world to invest in the very latest furnace charging technology. The award of this contract marks a significant milestone in the development of our blast furnace technology portfolio."
Reinstatement opportunity for ECSA registration
News
In 2023 the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) announced a special opportunity for engineers in South Africa to reinstate their registration status if it had been cancelled. This exclusive offer is available until the end of August 2024.
Read more...Justice Malala to talk at exclusive breakfast
News
South Africa’s economic recovery and industrial growth depend on policy reform and business innovation. Few commentators are better placed to explore these challenges than Justice Malala.
Read more...How to claim CPD points SAIMC Supplier Advisory Council
News
SAIMC makes it possible for you to claim CPD points for attending courses and technical meetings, or completing an online quiz on a SA Instrumentation & Control magazine.
Read more...Festo celebrates its centenary Festo South Africa
News
Creating added customer value through innovation has been the driving force behind the family-owned company from the beginning and remains the key to Festo’s success today. The company’s anniversary is being celebrated with employees, customers and partners worldwide throughout the year.
Read more...RS Group cements its position as an ESG leader
News
RS Group has announced its inclusion in the prestigious CDP A-list, having improved its CDP rating this year from A- to A for its commitment to climate action, environmental transparency and disclosure
Read more...ECSA awards full accreditation to IIE degrees
News
The Independent Institute of Education has received full accreditation from ECSA. This is the first private higher education provider in the country to be recognised in this manner by the industry authority.
Read more...South African students advance to international round of Young Researchers awards
News
Two Masters in Engineering students from Stellenbosch University have advanced to the international round of the 2025 Blue Sky Young Researchers and Innovation competition. Their projects impressed the Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa for their originality and relevance to the forestry sector, which plays a key role in producing wood and paper.
Read more...The ultimate range for design and repair RS South Africa
News
Design and repair are fundamental aspects of any industry. The launch of the new RS PRO Design & Repair range caters to a wide array of industries, including discrete and process manufacturing, energy and utilities, facilities management and intralogistics.
printer friendly version