In blast furnace (BF) stove operation, which fuel is ordinarily fired to heat the checkerwork for hot-blast generation?

Introduction / Context:
BF stoves heat combustion air (the hot blast) for ironmaking. The fuel choice impacts economy and integration of the steelworks energy system. Understanding typical fuels used in stoves is basic to iron and steel plant practice.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Integrated steel plant with blast furnace, coke ovens, and stoves.
• Avalability of by-product gases: blast furnace gas (BFG) and sometimes mixed gas (BFG blended with coke oven gas, COG).
• Goal: economical, stable firing of stove checkerwork.

Concept / Approach:
Blast furnace gas is produced in large volume with low calorific value but is ideal for continuous combustion in stoves. Plants often use BFG alone or as mixed gas (BFG + COG) to stabilize flame and calorific value, maximizing internal energy recovery and reducing purchased fuel.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify by-product gas stream: BFG is abundant and cheap.2) Recognize common practice: fire stoves on BFG; supplement or blend with COG as mixed gas if needed.3) Compare options: pulverised coal or oil can be used in special cases, but standard operation favors BFG/mixed gas.4) Select the best answer: “blast furnace gas/mixed gas.”

Verification / Alternative check:
Typical steelworks energy flow diagrams show BFG routed to stoves and power boilers; COG is higher CV and often blended for stability.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
pulverised coal: Not the standard fuel for BF stoves.furnace oil: Possible backup, but not common primary fuel.coke oven gas: Used, but usually as a blend; “BFG/mixed gas” captures normal practice.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing hot-blast stoves with boiler firing systems.Ignoring plant-wide fuel integration strategies.

Final Answer:
blast furnace gas/mixed gas