Abstract: A device for the extraction of gaseous samples and for thermal measurement above the burden of a shaft furnace includes at least one probe arm resonantly positioned in a horizontal plane above the burden. Means are provided for pivoting the probe arm above the burden from a rest position juxtaposed the furnace wall so that the entire surface of the burden can be scanned.

Abstract: A rotatable and angularly adjustable charging and distribution device for shaft furnaces, particularly blast furnaces, is presented. A cylindrical or frustoconical distribution spout is suspended at three points which define a plane. The three points of suspension are caused to move longitudinally (i.e. substantially vertically) and synchronously whereby the lateral surface of the distribution spout may be caused to move in a path which is virtually conical without rotating the suspension points about the vertical axis of the furnace. The suspension points may be moved either by delivering a driving force to them or by applying a traction force to them.

Abstract: A tuyere stock for use in the delivery of heated gas from a source to a furnace and characterized by the provision of a rigid connection between the injection nozzle portion of the stock and the blast tuyere which injects the heated gas to the furnace interior is disclosed. The injection nozzle portion of the tuyere stock is supported by guide means which maintains the blast tuyere in its proper operating position by preventing angular movement thereof while permitting motion thereof resulting from thermal expansion. The tuyere stock is further characterized by means which urges the blast tuyere against the furnace wall with a preselected minimum force.

Abstract: Segmented conduits for transmitting heated fluid, and particularly tuyere feed lines for injecting preheated air into shaft furnaces, have an annular cooling chamber incorporated into the coupling joints between conduit sections. The cooling chambers are positioned inwardly toward the conduit axis with respect to flexible bellows devices which heremetically seal the articulated coupling joints.

Abstract: A method of and apparatus for cooling and cleaning the sealing surfaces of the sealing valves of a material storage hopper which are subjected to the high temperature and pressure within a shaft furnace. The method comprises introducing a cooling medium into the charging installation of the furnace and causing the coolant to continuously impinge upon the sealing valves. The apparatus includes a rotatable sealing flap having a sealing surface of resilient material and a cooling fluid supply conduit for directing a flow of cooling fluid towards the sealing surface of the flap when the flap is in its opened position.