Method and apparatus for measuring slag foaming using microwave lever meter

An apparatus for measuring the slag foaming level in a converter during a blowing operation, said apparatus comprising:

• a microwave generator for generating frequency modulated microwaves having a predetermined frequency change rate;
• an antenna connected to said microwave generator for emitting said microwaves and for receiving reflected microwaves, said antenna including a waveguide having a reference reflector for reflecting microwaves, and an electromagnetic horn adapted to be directed toward a slag foaming surface within a converter for reflecting a first portion of said microwaves from said reference reflector and for reflecting a second portion of said microwaves from the slag foaming surface;
• and
• a signal processor connected to said antenna for processing said reflected microwaves received by said antenna for determining a distance from said antenna to the slag foaming surface, thereby providing a measure of the slag foaming level.

An apparatus for measuring the slag foaming level in a converter during a blowing operation, said apparatus comprising:

• a microwave generator for generating frequency modulated microwaves having a predetermined frequency change rate;
• an antenna connected to said microwave generator adapted for emitting said microwaves toward a slag foaming surface within a converter and for receiving reflected microwaves, said antenna including a protecting tube in an extreme portion thereof having an air purger for preventing penetration of dust from the converter into said antenna;
• and
• a signal processor connected to said antenna for processing said reflected microwaves received by said antenna for determining a distance from said antenna to the slag foaming surface, thereby providing a measure of the slag foaming level.

An apparatus for measuring the slag foaming level in a converter during a blowing operation, said apparatus comprising:

• a microwave generator for generating frequency modulated microwaves having a predetermined frequency change rate;
• an antenna connected to said microwave generator adapted for emitting said microwaves toward a slag foaming surface within a converter and for receiving reflected microwaves, said antenna including a water cooling means for preventing heat from the converter from adversely affecting said antenna;
• and
• a signal processor connected to said antenna for processing said reflected microwaves received by said antenna for determining a distance from said antenna to the slag foaming surface, thereby providing a measure of the slag foaming level.