Republic Steel Corporation

Thomas M Maloney

Kegham M Markarian

A force sensing control apparatus and method is disclosed for detecting forces which resist movement of a motor driven electrode system in an electric arc furnace. Force sensing circuitry monitors forces applied to an electrode system as it is positioned with respect to the furnace and force responsive controls inhibit electrode movement, hence preventing damage to the electrode or to its support structure, in response to predetermined changes in sensed reaction forces during positioning of the electrode. Compensating circuitry continuously compensates for changes in forces arising from electrode weight variations and position changes of the electrode support structure so that the sensitivity of the control apparatus to applied forces which can damage electrode system remains consistently high.

Growing community of inventors

Cleveland, OH, United States of America

Thomas M Maloney