How Steel Producers Use Thermal Mass Flow Meters to Reduce Energy Costs & Improve Quality

Steel production is an energy-intensive process, so optimizing combustion control is imperative to reducing energy costs. Using thermal mass flow meters to monitor air (or oxygen) and fuel rates in boilers and furnaces, helps steel producers achieve the perfect air-to-fuel ratio — this not only slashes natural gas or propane costs but also boosts efficiency, product quality, and yield.

So, why are thermal mass flow meters the go-to tool for this? They’re designed for precision—offering highly accurate, repeatable measurements without needing separate temperature or pressure transmitters. Plus, with no moving parts, they’re reliable and durable. Their incredible rangeability (100:1) and fast response times make them perfect for combustion control, ensuring energy savings and better performance.

Compressed Air or Nitrogen Flow Monitoring

Steel production involves many processes that require precise monitoring of gases, including compressed air and nitrogen. There are also some manufacturers who choose to use nitrogen instead of air to prevent oxidation, because oxygen reacts with steel at high temperatures, forming unwanted oxides. In either case, thermal mass flow meters are the perfect tool for monitoring these gases, ensuring smooth operations.

Monitoring Nitrogen and Argon

Thermal mass flow meters (TMFM) aren’t just for combustion—they’re also very important in the actual steel-making process.

Gas Mass flow meters help eliminate bubbles and impurities by monitoring the nitrogen and argon flow rate for bottom stirring molten steel.

"The right mix of these gases directly impacts the quality of the steel produced," says Bob Steinberg, President & CEO of Sage Metering, Inc. , a leading designer and manufacturer of thermal mass flow meters. "Our Sage Prime TMFM has dual-range calibration, which makes it the ideal instrument for this critical task.

Monitoring Natural Gas

Natural gas also plays a significant role in steel production, especially when it comes to heating the steel. By accurately measuring gas flow, thermal mass flow meters ensure that processes run efficiently, contributing to better quality and energy savings.

From optimizing combustion control to monitoring gases like nitrogen, argon, and natural gas, thermal mass flow meters play an important role in every step of steel production. Their accuracy, reliability, and versatility make them the ideal instruments for boosting efficiency, improving product quality, and cutting energy costs.

If you're interested in learning more about thermal mass flow meters or which TMFM is the best for your industry's applications, go to www.SageMetering.com