Pre-Tap Plugs
Pre-Tap Plugs
Pre tap plugs are used to stop the initial flush of slag at the onset of tapping. These plugs are inserted into the taphole from the outside of the vessel using an applicator pole after scrap has been charged and before molton Iron is added.
The plugs provide a temporary blockage of the taphole preventing the initial surge of slag but will disintegrate when steel becomes in contact with the plug allowing free flow of steel into the ladle.
Normal practice is to insert the pre tap plugs manually using an applicator pole however Monocon have a number of alternative methods for pre tap insertion which are less arduous and safe for the operative. Our experience shows that this Monocon pre-tap plug solution can prevent around 15% of the slag carryover from the BOF vessel.
Monocon offer four main solutions for the application of pre-tap plugs, as shown below. Please contact our UK technical engineering team for further information on the Monocon solution.
Design Features
Safety Benefit
Technical Specification
Supply Options
Application 1 - Manual
Manual application of pre-tap plugs is a traditional option, which relies on good operator skill and expertise for the best deployment.
Application 2 - Auto Floor Mounted
Monocon can offer an automatic floor mounted pre-tap plug applicator as shown.
This design is typically pillar-mounted and automatically swings into a pre-determined deployment position.
Application 3 - Auto Track Supported
Monocon can offer a wall mounted, track supported pre-tap plug applicator as shown.
This option provides a handling device that is attached to the furnace doors to minimise manual handling and provide a safer working environment for the operators
Application 4 - Auto Trolly Mounted
The Monocon trolly mounted pre-tap plug applicator provides automatic deployment and ulimate operational equipment flexibility as it can be used for more than one furnace.
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