Development of a Novel Oven-Furnace

Abstract

This research work is focused on the design and fabrication of Novel Oven-Furnace, using locally sourced materials for the purpose of carrying out drying and thermochemical treatments in accordance to the International Electric Equipment (IEE) regulations. Working drawings were produced, and mild steel sheet was used for the construction of the casing, while other materials for the construction were selected based on functions and properties of the materials, cost considerations and ease of fabrication into component parts. The design closely revealed the parameters and features of the furnace, but the control system was designed to function systematically as Oven and Furnace. Testing was carried out to evaluate the performance of the Oven-Furnace. From the result obtained, it was observed that the Oven-Furnace has fast heating rate which is comparable to rates of conventional brands of furnaces purchased from Germany or Canada. Unlike the ordinary furnaces, this equipment was designed to operate systematically to maintain constant temperature at any set temperature value. The lower cost of design of the Oven-Furnace coupled with its good heat retaining capacity, long estimated life time, uniform heating rate, controlled atmosphere, safety and ease of maintenance justifies the usage.