Abstract:
A study has been carried out on the types of construction and factors affecting efficiency
of metal melting furnaces currently used in the non-ferrous foundry sector with the
objective of developing an oil-fired furnace with improved efficiency and reduced
constructional and operating costs.
The project was initiated by the FDSI (Foundry Development and Services Institute) to
meet a requirement of the small and medium-scale foundry industry. For example, there
are many manufacturers of ornamental castings of Brass and Aluminum in the country, but
they face the problem of the absence of a suitable furnace which could operate easily,
efficiently and economically.
Following a preliminary survey and assessment of technical data, the main factors which
affect performance were identified. Based on this a new design was evolved, the main
features of which are that the charge is pre-heated, the flame retained in the furnace for
longer duration and the fuel pre-heated and subjected to better atomised spray. The
furnace, commissioned at a local foundry, demonstrated a significant improvement in
performance over conventional types and acceptance by industry. A key feature was the
improvement in overall working conditions and working environment. Based on this
experience, a further improved version has been constructed and installed at the
Mechanical Engineering Department - University of Moratuwa as a demonstration model
for industry.
