Thermic Lance is widely celebrated for its remarkable efficiency in cutting and melting ferrous metals, making it a preferred tool in many industrial applications. However, beyond its established use in ferrous metal processing, Thermic Lance also holds significant potential in the production and processing of non-ferrous metals.
In this comprehensive article, we will delve into the ways Thermic Lance proves to be an invaluable asset in the non-ferrous metal industry. The production of non-ferrous metals often involves unique challenges, including different melting points, oxidation rates, and thermal conductivities, which can complicate traditional cutting and melting methods. Thermic Lance, with its high-temperature capabilities and precision, offers an effective solution to these challenges.
Thermic Lance Cutting Application for Non-ferrous Metals
Source: Daiwa Lance International
Applications of Thermic Lance for Ferrous Metals
Thermic Lance, available in models Type T, Type W, and the advanced Rolled Thermic Lance, can produce temperatures exceeding 4,000°C. These lances are designed with different inner pipe structures, resulting in varied flame characteristics but sharing the ability to effectively melt and cut materials.
In ferrous metal applications, Thermic Lance is used for:
- Cutting hard materials
- Demolishing structures
- Removing slag in steel mills
- Scrap cutting in scrapyards
- Tap hole opening in furnaces
Characteristics and Challenges in Non-ferrous Metal Production
1. High Melting Point
Non-ferrous metals like nickel, copper, and aluminum have high melting points due to their closely packed crystal structures and strong metallic bonds. This increases the time and difficulty of melting and cutting processes.
- Nickel (Ni): 1,455°C
- Copper (Cu): 1,085°C
- Aluminum (Al): 660.3°C
2. High Hardness
Non-ferrous metals, particularly nickel, exhibit high hardness because of their small grain sizes and strong bonds. This hardening during processing further complicates melting and cutting tasks.
3. High Ductility
High ductility in metals like tin causes slag to adhere strongly to furnace walls, impeding the flow of molten metal and reducing furnace efficiency. This slag accumulation demands higher heat for melting.
4. Temperature-resistant Equipment Required
The intense heat within furnaces, often exceeding the metal’s melting point to ensure uniformity, can lead to rapid wear and tear of equipment. Durable, temperature-resistant tools are essential.
Advantages of Using Thermic Lance in Non-ferrous Metal Manufacturing
1. High-temperature Cutting and Melting
Non-ferrous metals often require higher temperatures than their melting points due to alloying elements. Thermic Lance, with its ability to produce over 4,000°C, is ideal for these tasks. The chemical reaction between iron wires and oxygen in Thermic Lance generates Fe2O3 and substantial heat, efficiently breaking down tough bonds in non-ferrous ores.
2. Tapping
Thermic Lance is highly effective in opening the tapping holes at furnace bottoms, which can be challenging due to hard-to-break materials and sticky slags from high ductility metals. The lance’s super high heat cutting power swiftly clears these obstructions, enhancing metal flow and reducing equipment corrosion.
3. Cleaning
Post-melting, the slag solidifies on furnace walls, reducing capacity and prolonging melting times. Thermic Lance, through its exothermic chemical reaction, melts and removes this hardened slag, maintaining furnace efficiency and reducing downtime.
Conclusion
Thermic Lance is an indispensable tool in both ferrous and non-ferrous metal production, offering unparalleled heat generation for cutting, tapping, and cleaning processes. By enhancing productivity and extending the lifespan of furnaces, Thermic Lance proves to be a cost-effective and efficient solution.
For more information, please contact our sales team at sales@daiwaanayasteel.com.
Daiwa Anaya Steel Private Limited is a part of Anaya Steel, LLC (US parent company). Our company has over 30 years of involvement in steel products. It mostly deals in:
- Specialized steel hardware – punched, pressed, galvanized, powder coated.
- Steel pipes and tubing – specialized, color coated, galvanized and structural.
- Our Lance pipes are produced by Daiwa Lance International in Vietnam.
