Turboblower Reliability and Safety Improvements by Using Reliable Actuator Positioning

In Indiana, a steel producer recently installed REXA electrohydraulic (EH) actuators to position critical speed control valves and airflow variable stator vanes on turboblowers that feed wind to the blast furnace. The previous EH HPU actuators had numerous reliability issues (high-pressure oil leaks, fouled servo valves, etc.) inherent to HPU EH technology. There were safety and environmental concerns from chronic oil leaks with repeated fires and applicable downtime. They upgraded to REXA EH actuators, immediately improving reliability, mitigating safety and environmental risks, and simplifying maintenance. The project payback was &lt;6 months with less turboblower downtime impacting the blast furnace.<br/><br/>2024 Reliability Achievement Award - Gold

Authors:

Mr. Josh Davich | Cleveland-Cliffs Burns Harbor
 

Mr. Nick Dres | Cleveland-Cliffs Burns Harbor
 

Mr. Mark Ferra | REXA
 

Mr. Dave Nelsen | REXA
 

Session Chairs:

Carl Garringer | Steel Dynamics Inc. - Structural and Rail Division
 

Landon Woody | Nucor-Yamato Steel Co.