Design and construction of an electric heat treatment furnace using locally sourced materials

This project involved the design and construction of an electric heat treatment furnace using locally sourced materials. The design process included extensive research on existing designs, the creation of detailed CAD models, and the careful selection of refractory materials. All materials used for the design and production were locally sourced in Warri, Nigeria. The fabrication process encompassed cutting, drilling, welding, and assembling the components, resulting in a high-quality and durable furnace. The heat treatment furnace, designed and fabricated, successfully achieved a performance of 1,000°C. The furnace was lined with a refractory composed of clay and white cement in a ratio of 3:1, with a thickness of 150mm. Additionally, an initial lining layer of 100mm fire-resistant rock-wool, capable of withstanding temperatures up to 1,400°C, was applied. To monitor and control the temperature, a digital temperature and time control/monitor unit, along with a temperature sensor, were installed in the furnace. The project was successfully completed at a cost of N247,200.00, significantly cheaper than imported alternatives, and proved efficient during testing.