An Experimental Study on Feasibility of Using Fiber-Optic Strain Sensor for Monitoring Dynamic Electric Arc Furnace Weight

Abstract

Dynamically monitoring the weight of electric arc furnace (EAF) can provide critical insights into operational parameters such as liquid heel variation, refractory wear, and actual scrap load- which are essential for optimizing energy usage. The extreme environment near the furnace makes traditional load cells unsuitable for continuous use. In this study, Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG)-based optical strain sensors were installed at the base of the EAF rocker arm to explore the feasibility of capturing real-time variation in furnace weight due to different operational activities. The sensors successfully survived the trial campaign and could detect operational events such as roof movement, slag removal, and liquid steel tapping.