Ladle Purging System
Our ladle purging systems feature a range of high-performance purge plugs, each engineered to optimise steel quality, enhance durability, and improve operational efficiency in secondary metallurgy.
Over the years, IFGL has established itself as a trusted provider of purging refractory systems and solutions. We work closely with customers, offering deep expertise in application technology and simulation studies tailored to specific shop-floor requirements.
Our portfolio includes slit, segmented, and hybrid purging plugs, also supplied as pre-fitted Plug and Block Assemblies (PBA) with high-grade alumina or alumina–spinel compositions.
Types of IFGL Plugs for Ladle Purging Systems
Below are the key types of plugs available with IFGL for various steelmaking requirements.
Directional Plugs
IFGL-designed alumina–spinel plugs with angled or directional gas channels create targeted stirring patterns in the ladle.
- Features:
- Customisable gas flow direction for improved alloy homogenisation and temperature uniformity.
- Robust design withstands high ferrostatic pressure and thermal cycling.
- Enhanced safety through precise dimensional control, preventing gas leakage or breakouts.
- Applications:
- Ladle refining of specialty steel grades used in critical infrastructure.
- RH degassers for uniform alloy distribution in continuous casting.
Segment Plugs
IFGL-designed alumina-spinel and alumina-chrome segment plugs with precision-cut slits enable controlled gas flow and improved mixing efficiency.
- Features:
- Superior erosion and corrosion resistance, enabling extended purging performance.
- Resistant to slag penetration, ensuring consistent operation.
- Applications:
- RH degassers for uniform alloy distribution in continuous casting.
- High-alloy steel grades requiring precise composition control.
- BOF and EAF tapping for gentle mixing of low-carbon steels.
Hybrid Purging Plugs
IFGL Hybrid Plugs combine the uniform gas distribution of porous plugs with the durability of slit-type plugs, manufactured with high-purity alumina–spinel or magnesia–chromite refractories.
- Features:
- High thermal and corrosion resistance, withstanding temperatures above 1750°C.
- Built-in wear indicators and robust housing ensure safety and prevent steel breakouts.
- Easy maintenance with oxygen-lancing compatibility and segment designs that resist cracking.
- Benefits:
- Superior steel quality through efficient homogenisation and inclusion removal.
- Reduced argon consumption and downtime, ensuring cost efficiency and sustainability.
- Applications:
- Vacuum Degassing (VD/VOD) for high-purity steels used in automotive and aerospace.
- BOF and EAF tapping for controlled mixing of low-carbon steels.
Plug and Block Assemblies (PBA)
Pre-assembled units that combine purge plugs with refractory housing blocks for seamless integration and enhanced durability.
- Features:
- Streamlined installation and replacement, minimising downtime.
- High-precision dimensional control to prevent steel breakouts and gas leakage.
- Available in porous, slit, or directional configurations to meet specific requirements.
- Applications:
- Ladle furnaces and vacuum degassing units for consistent performance.
- Cleaner steel production, including infrastructure-grade steel (e.g., IS:1786 TMT bars).
Why Choose Our Purge Plugs?
- Tailored Solutions: Hybrid, directional, and segment plugs engineered for specific ladle capacities and steel grades.
- Unmatched Durability: Advanced refractories and innovative designs ensure longer service life with reduced operational costs.
- Proven Performance: Backed by CFD modeling and industrial testing for reliable, high-quality steel production.
- Sustainability: Optimised gas flow reduces argon consumption, supporting eco-friendly steelmaking.
