by Ana Urbina (Admin)
CL-Inspector: A highly targeted answer to ladle monitoring during casting
In steel manufacturing, alloy ladles are essential links in the chain of efficient, high-volume production. While these massive containers carry molten metal from furnace to caster, the integrity of the refractory lining is constantly under strain, as micro-cracks and thinning walls may go unnoticed, until a sudden breakout halts operations and puts lives at risk.
To provide a highly targeted answer, we introduce the CL-Inspector, a new specialized thermal monitoring system engineered for use when the ladle is in casting position on the trolley. Using the same high-performance hardware as our trusted LA-Inspector system, the CL-Inspector provides continuous, contactless monitoring during one of the most critical phases of steel production.
Intelligent Software Built for Casting Operations
The CL-Inspector is a software suite, tailored to the static conditions of the trolley position. The software interprets infrared thermal data with contextual intelligence, adjusting for factors such as temperature gradients and the unique heat distribution seen during metal pouring.
Up to five high-performance thermal imaging cameras capture detailed surface temperature maps in real time. The system continuously tracks each ladle’s thermal footprint, automatically detecting irregularities and triggering immediate alerts if a dangerous hotspot is found. All without interrupting the casting workflow.
The client/server architecture of CL-Inspector ensures plant-wide access and customizable visualizations. Operators can monitor ladles remotely and in real time, with advanced SQL data storage enabling integration into existing dashboards, digital twins, and predictive maintenance tools powered by AI or machine learning. The intuitive interface also ensures that operators spend less time navigating screens and more time preventing problems.
Customization doesn’t end there either. As with the rest of our solutions, the CL-Inspector integrates smoothly into your plant. Whether your setup is highly standardized or fully custom, the system can be integrated to match your workflow with minimal setup effort.
“Why should I use a separate system just for casting position?”
Ladle monitoring is not a one-size-fits-all process. While our LA-Inspector is optimized for ladles in crane transit, the casting phase presents a distinct environment and set of thermal dynamics. When the ladle is stationary on the casting trolley, exposure time, heat radiation, and operational context differ significantly.
The use of a special monitoring system at this point enables continuous hotspot detection throughout the entire casting process.
Experience fewer unexpected failures, less downtime, and a fast return on investment, often already within a year, with the CL-Inspector. Not sure whether to choose CL or LA-Inspector? Contact our experts today! We’re here to help you identify the best setup for ladle monitoring.