
Working in steel refining furnaces, where temperatures exceed 1,600 degrees Celsius, demands equipment that can withstand extreme heat while maintaining operational integrity. The calorized layer on oxygen-blowing pipes is a crucial feature that provides the heat resistance and durability required in these environments. This report explores the significance of the calorized layer in lance pipes, detailing how it enhances heat resistance, extends lifespan, and improves safety and efficiency in steel refining processes.
The Role of the Calorized Layer in High-Temperature Industrial Applications
Source: Daiwa Lance International

What is a Calorized Layer?
A calorized layer is an aluminum-iron alloy coating that is applied to steel pipes through a vaporization process at temperatures exceeding 1,000 degrees Celsius. This layer provides a heat-resistant barrier, crucial for oxygen-blowing pipes used in Electric Arc Furnaces (EAFs). The calorized layer significantly reduces direct exposure to molten metal, thereby extending the pipe’s lifespan and enhancing its durability.
The Calorization Process
The process of calorization involves vaporizing aluminum and allowing it to mix with molten steel to form a high-adhesion aluminum-iron alloy layer. This layer is then applied to the inner and outer surfaces of the lance pipe. Critical factors such as the ratio of calorized powder, the temperature at which aluminum vaporizes, and the duration of the calorization process determine the quality and effectiveness of the layer. Properly calorized lance pipes typically have a lifespan 3 to 10 times longer than conventional steel pipes, representing a significant advantage in high-temperature applications.

Challenges with Standard Oxygen Lancing Pipes
While calorized lance pipes offer significant benefits, their production requires a precise and complex process. Many companies opt for standard black pipes for oxygen blowing in steel refining furnaces. While these alternatives may be less expensive, they often lack the heat resistance and durability of calorized lance pipes, leading to frequent replacements and increased operational risks.
The Benefits of Calorized Lance Pipes
Calorized lance pipes, with their specialized calorized layer, are designed to withstand extreme temperatures. This high-heat-resistance feature extends the lifespan of the pipes, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Additionally, the calorized layer provides high hardness, preventing deformation under intense heat. These qualities translate to improved safety, reduced maintenance costs, and increased efficiency in the steel refining process.
Risks of Using Pipes Without the Calorized Layer
Pipes without a proper calorized layer are prone to rapid wear and deformation when exposed to high temperatures. This not only compromises the quality of the steel refining process but also poses safety risks to workers. A pipe lacking the calorized layer is less heat-resistant and more likely to fail, leading to costly downtime and potential hazards in the workplace.

Conclusion: Why the Calorized Layer Matters
Selecting oxygen-blowing pipes with a high-quality calorized layer is essential for operations in high-temperature environments. The calorized layer protects the pipe from extreme heat, extends its lifespan, and enhances safety and efficiency in steel refining processes. To achieve the best results in high-temperature industrial environments, companies should select suppliers with a reputation for producing durable and high-performance calorized lance pipes.
To learn more about the Calorized Lances, please feel free to 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.