
551Ferrous Metals
Ladle drying is carried out after relines, with the typi-
cal dry-out schedule lasting 24h. Drying the refractories
prior to receiving tapped steel is crucial for adequate
protection of the refractories and safety of the shop.
Without a proper dry-out schedule, severe refractory
spalling and large eruptions (if moisture is still pres-
ent) can occur when steel is teemed into the ladle. The
dry-out schedule varies based on refractory type and
supplier-recommended ramp rates. Figure 22.23 shows
a generalized drying and preheat ramp rate for a mod-
ern high-alumina/magnesia-carbon zoned ladle.
Conversely ladle preheating station