Step 1: What is Oxygen Enrichment?
Oxygen enrichment in blast furnaces refers to increasing the oxygen content in the hot blast air blown into the furnace. The goal is to enhance combustion efficiency, reduce coke consumption, and improve the productivity of the furnace.
Step 2: Industrial Standard
In Indian blast furnaces, oxygen enrichment is typically carried out up to about 25% oxygen by volume in the blast air. This level balances operational efficiency and safety.
Step 3: Benefits of Oxygen Enrichment
- Increases flame temperature.
- Enhances reduction reactions.
- Reduces nitrogen load in the blast, which improves thermal efficiency.
Step 4: Evaluating Options
- 12% and 20% are lower than the industrial norm for peak enrichment.
- 40% is too high and may lead to operational hazards or inefficiencies.
- 25% is the widely adopted and optimized figure for industrial use in India.
Conclusion: In Indian blast furnaces, oxygen enrichment is done up to 25%.