AF700 Automatic Ash Fusion Determinator

The ash fusibility or ash melting behavior is a characteristic physical state of the ash obtained by heating under specific test conditions. Ash fusion temperatures are critical quality control parameter to predict whether or not a specific fuel will perform properly in a given industrial application. It is used to evaluate the tendency of a coal to form clinkers. Tight control of the melting temperature and behavior of the mold powder is essential for the production of steel casting quality.

The AF700 Ash Fusion Determinator automatically monitors ash cone deformation temperatures in coal ash, coke ash, biomass ash and mold powders.

It increases laboratory throughput using predefined ash fusibility temperatures (IT, ST, HT, and FT) automatically determined by the software’s Image Recognition Functions (IRF). A complete image history for all analyzed samples can be digitally archived and retrieved to make objective determinations of deformation temperatures.

The AF700 offers automated procedure for ASTM  D1857 approved Standard Test Method for Fusibility of Coal and Coke Ash, ISO 540, DIN 51730 and other analog standards.

Unique benefits of AF700:

• Up to 6 samples (or 12 with double furnace) simultaneously and automatically
• Significantly increase the objectivity of measurement
• Digital images capture and recording for test traceability
• Software automatically determines fusibility temperatures
• Pre-defined test methods or customized
• Built in CO monitor increases laboratory safety
• Small foot-print

Prepared ash cones are mounted on a ceramic tray and placed into a high temperature, rampable furnace. The user selects an analytical method with a predefined furnace atmosphere (oxidizing or reducing) and a ramp rate (°C/minute) for the furnace based on approved methodologies. The furnace is first purged with nitrogen before the selected atmosphere is introduced. Next, a high-resolution digital camera collects images (up to 30 frames/minute) after the furnace temperature reaches the method-defined starting point (typically 750°C). Predefined ash fusibility temperatures (IT, ST, HT, and FT) automatically determined using Image Recognition Functions (IRF) within the software.

Features:

• A stable, permanently mounted integrated camera—isolated from the high temperature area
• Programmable furnace ramping from 4°C to 12°C/minute
• Integrated viewing system—consistently aligns mirrors with camera and furnace
• LED light ring—enables accurate low temperature deformation point measurement
• High-endurance six-element heating furnace—have strength and power load capacity resulting in a durable long-life furnace with low maintenance
• Double furnace configuration allows to analyze a set of samples in a reducing and an oxidizing atmosphere simultaneously increasing throughput
• Door interlocks and an integrated carbon monoxide detector provide increased laboratory safety.

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