Using Oxygen Enrichment To Extend Regenerative Furnace Life And Enhance Glass Production

This paper discusses the use of oxygen enrichment in a regenerative glass container furnace as a means to extend the life of the furnace and regain lost glass production. A regenerator collapse had occurred on both sides of a cross-fired, regenerative glass container furnace, resulting in higher furnace operating pressures, a subsequent heat loss to the melting process, and a reduction in glass production. Along with other furnace operating changes, the installation of an oxygen enrichment system reduced the furnace operating pressures and restored the previous glass tonnage output from the furnace.