Applus+ assesses the integrity of blast furnaces at a steel complex in Minas Gerais, Brazil

The project combines Applus+ expertise in asset integrity, industrial inspection, non-destructive testing (NDT) and specialized engineering. The scope includes visual and dimensional inspections, wall thickness measurements, corrosion monitoring, thermography, endoscopy and dimensional surveys using Laser Tracker and laser profiling technology based on point clouds.

These techniques will enable the assessment of blast furnaces, structures, piping, supports and associated systems operating under demanding conditions, identifying potential cracks, deformations, wall thickness loss and other discontinuities that could affect their structural and mechanical integrity.

The work also includes ovality, verticality, and levelling measurements, photographic records, anomaly classification, and engineering analysis to determine the criticality of any deviations identified. In areas that are difficult to access, drones may be used to expand inspection capabilities and reduce personnel exposure wherever technically feasible.

In steelmaking facilities, the early identification of degradation mechanisms is essential to prevent unexpected failures, equipment downtime, safety risks, and production disruptions. In this context, Applus+ approach will provide reliable technical information to help operations, maintenance and integrity teams prioritize interventions and make informed decisions about critical assets.

Carrying out activities in a highly complex industrial environment also requires rigorous safety management. Working at height, accessing restricted areas, operating near equipment in service and exposure to high temperatures will be managed through detailed planning, preliminary risk assessments, qualified personnel, appropriate access and anchoring systems, and specialized personal protective equipment.

The project will deliver thickness maps, structured anomaly records, criticality classifications and technical reports, together with recommendations for the repair, reinforcement, replacement, monitoring, or rehabilitation of the components assessed.

This information will provide a technical basis for defining maintenance and integrity strategies, enabling resources to be prioritized, interventions to be planned and equipment condition to be assessed more predictably.

Through this project, Applus+ further strengthens its expertise in asset integrity assessment, industrial inspection, non-destructive testing and engineering solutions for critical assets, supporting the steel industry in preventing failures and achieving safer, more reliable and more efficient operations.