Abstract: The invention relates to a device for facilitating the connection of burners, especially plasma generators, to reactor tuyeres in vertical furnaces for metal oxide reduction with simultaneous sealing of the vertical furnace, composed of a sealing ring (13) with a unit for the supply of a protective gas (10, 17, 18, 19). In this case the sealing ring (13) is constructed radially movable in a seat (12).

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and a means for facilitating the replacement of plasma generators and for minimizing the heat losses during installation of a plasma generator in a shaft furnace, particularly for plasma generators of the type comprising cylindrical electrodes between which an electric arc is generated, the bases of the arc being caused to rotate by means of electric field coils arranged around said electrodes. To achieve this at least the field coil (7) surrounding the electrode nearest to the nose (12) of the plasma generator, together with its connections for coolant and electricity, is permanently secured in the wall (1) of the shaft furnace in conjunction with the opening (6) for insertion of the plasma generator (11) into the shaft furnace.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for effecting rapid, reliable and risk-free, pressure-tight connection of a plasma generator to a reactor, such as a shaft furnace for metal oxide reduction. First electrical contact means arranged on a plasma generator, substantially enclosed by a cover, automatically connect the plasma generator to stationary second contact means when the plasma generator is moved by remote-control to a fully installed operating position from a partially installed sealing position in which the plasma generator has its front end partially inserted in the reactor tuyere and seals the reactor. A remote-controlled valve, which seals the reactor from the surroundings when the plasma generator is in an outer completely retracted position, is opened once the plasma generator is in its sealing position, after which the plasma generator is moved to its operating position.