The modern forms of converter comprise both the vertical and the barrel types, modified largely as regards size and constructional details, and although the vertical form is still in use and is even preferred at several smelters, it has been largely superseded at most plants by the barrel-shaped variety, whilst the possibilities of greatly enlarged vessels using basic linings are likely to favour this replacement still further.
1. The Upright Bessemer Vessel is used, and found satisfactory at Great Falls and at Mt. Lyell. The general size has been 8 feet diameter and 16 feet height, with a capacity ranging from 5 to 12 tons, according to the condition of the lining, though at Great Falls converters of 12 feet diameter with corresponding capacity are now in use. The advantages of the vertical form are, that, owing to the greater depth of matte through which the air passes, the oxidation is more rapidly conducted, the lining is more efficiently supported, and the wear by abrasion upon the lining is found to be considerably less in amount and to be more uniformly distributed.
On the other hand, the greater depth of matte necessitates a greater blowing pressure in order to force the air through the material, whilst control over the operations becomes a matter of greater difficulty.
Fig. 62.-Sectional Elevation and Plan of
Barrel-Shaped Silica-Lined Converter (Peters).
2. The Barrel Form of Converter is the type in common use. Among the advantages claimed for this form are those which accrue from being able to operate the same weight of matte in more shallow layers, as compared with the upright form—thus requiring lower blast pressures. Another advantage is the greater ease of regulating the depth of material blown through, by tilting the converter and thus altering the relative position of the tuyeres.
Owing to the successful adoption of the basic lining, the barrel type of converter has now to be divided into two classes, since the basic converter differs from the silica-lined type in constructional details, and is usually of much larger dimensions. Its operation is also conducted on somewhat different lines.