Upper Seal Feeder for Direct Reduction Shaft Furnace

Product Specifications

Technical details and manufacturing context for Upper Seal Feeder

Definition

The Upper Seal Feeder is a critical component of the Direct Reduction Shaft Furnace system, positioned at the furnace's top charging section. Its primary function is to introduce iron ore pellets or lump ore into the furnace while preventing the escape of reducing gases (typically a mixture of CO and H₂) and maintaining the required pressure conditions within the furnace. This dual role ensures efficient reduction reactions and operational safety by minimizing gas leakage and air ingress. The feeder operates on a batch principle, often using a lock-hopper or rotary valve mechanism. Material is loaded into an upper chamber, which is then sealed. The chamber equalizes pressure with the furnace interior before opening a lower gate to discharge material into the furnace. This process maintains a continuous seal, preventing gas escape during charging cycles. Some designs incorporate multiple chambers for continuous feeding while maintaining sealing integrity. Key parameters for selection include rated capacity (50–200 t/h), operating pressure (1.0–1.6 MPa), operating temperature (200–400°C), leakage rate (≤0.5%), sealing surface flatness (≤0.05 mm), drive motor power (7.5–22 kW), supply voltage (380–690 V AC per IEC 60038), ingress protection (IP54–IP65 per IEC 60529), material grade (ASTM A36/304), and weight (1500–3500 kg). These values are reference ranges and must be verified for the specific model and application. Materials on file include high-temperature alloy steel, refractory linings, and abrasion-resistant seals. The feeder is designed for harsh environments, with ingress protection suitable for dusty conditions. It is essential to confirm model-specific values and standards with the legal manufacturer or supplier before procurement. The feeder's performance directly impacts furnace efficiency and safety, making proper selection and maintenance critical.

Working Principle

The Upper Seal Feeder typically operates using a lock-hopper system or rotary valve mechanism. Material is loaded into an upper chamber, which is then sealed. The chamber equalizes pressure with the furnace interior before opening a lower gate to discharge material into the furnace. This batch process maintains a continuous seal, preventing gas escape during charging cycles. Some designs incorporate multiple chambers for continuous feeding while maintaining sealing integrity.

Common Materials

High-temperature alloy steel, Refractory linings, Abrasion-resistant seals

Technical Parameters

Parameter	Typical range	Notes & selection driver
Rated Capacity	50–200 t/h	Matches furnace throughput; higher requires larger drive.
Operating Pressure	1.0–1.6 MPa
Operating Temperature	200–400 °C	Above 400°C requires special alloys.
Leakage Rate	≤0.5 %	Ensures gas-tight seal; higher increases gas loss.
Sealing Surface Flatness	≤0.05 mm	Critical for uniform seal compression.
Drive Motor Power	7.5–22 kW	Depends on feeder size and torque requirements.
Supply Voltage	380–690 V AC	Three-phase; other voltages on request.IEC 60038
Ingress Protection	IP54–IP65	Higher IP for dusty environments.IEC 60529
Material Grade	ASTM A36/304	304 for corrosion resistance; A36 for structural parts.ASTM A36/A240
Weight	1500–3500 kg	Varies with size and material.

Ranges are indicative industry figures for RFQ preparation, not a supplier commitment. Confirm every value and standard with the legal manufacturer before ordering.

Components / BOM

Seal Chamber
Holds material during pressure equalization and provides primary sealing

Material: High-temperature steel with refractory lining
Upper Gate Valve
Seals the top of the chamber during loading operations

Material: Abrasion-resistant alloy steel
Lower Discharge Valve
Controls material discharge into the furnace while maintaining seal

Material: Heat-resistant alloy with ceramic seals
Pressure Equalization System
Manages gas pressure between chamber and furnace interior

Material: Stainless steel piping and valves
Rotary Valve Optional
Meters material through a rotating pocketed rotor while staying gas-tight, instead of a lock hopper.

Applied To / Applications

This component is essential for the following industrial systems and equipment:

Direct Reduction Shaft Furnace

View system integration details

Manufacturers of Upper Seal Feeder

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Compiled and source-reviewed by the CNFX editorial team. Each manufacturer above links to the page on that company's own website where the product is listed, with the date we checked it. How we source and review · Page last updated 6 September 2026

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary function of the Upper Seal Feeder?

The Upper Seal Feeder introduces iron ore pellets or lump ore into the Direct Reduction Shaft Furnace while preventing the escape of reducing gases and maintaining pressure conditions. It ensures efficient reduction and operational safety.

How does the Upper Seal Feeder maintain a gas-tight seal?

It uses a lock-hopper or rotary valve mechanism. Material is loaded into a sealed chamber, pressure is equalized with the furnace, then a lower gate opens to discharge material. This batch process prevents gas leakage during charging.

What are the typical operating parameters for this feeder?

Reference ranges include rated capacity 50–200 t/h, operating pressure 1.0–1.6 MPa, temperature 200–400°C, leakage rate ≤0.5%, and drive motor power 7.5–22 kW. These must be confirmed for the specific model.

What materials are used in the Upper Seal Feeder?

Materials on file include high-temperature alloy steel, refractory linings, and abrasion-resistant seals. Material grades may include ASTM A36/304, but verify with the manufacturer for the actual model.

Data Basis

Editorial classification, named public sources where available, and source-reviewed manufacturer records.

Preliminary Technical Classification

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pressure:	Up to 5 bar (72.5 psi) differential pressure
flow rate:	10-100 tons/hour of iron ore pellets
temperature:	Up to 400°C (752°F) continuous operation
slurry concentration:	Not applicable - designed for dry granular materials

Upper Seal Feeder

Product Specifications

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