Innovative Velco RH Gunning Manipulator To Improve Snorkel Maintenance In Steel Plants

1st July 2026

The latest RH Gunning Manipulator, a cutting edge tool designed to increase safety, precision and efficiency in refractory repairs for RH (reduction/degassing) snorkels used in steelmaking operations.

Refractory maintenance inside RH snorkels has traditionally been labour intensive, exposing operators to intense radiant heat and challenging working conditions. With the new gunning manipulator solution, much of that workload is mechanised, reducing manual strain and risk while enabling targeted internal repairs that would otherwise be difficult or unsafe to perform.

Safer, More Efficient Repairs

Mounted on a service carriage that travels beneath the snorkel, the RH Gunning Manipulator is available in configurations with either one or two gunning lances. This flexibility allows operators to perform inside and outside refractory application - critical for extending snorkel life and maintaining consistent production performance.

The manipulators are operated via cable or radio remote control and include features such as adjustable lance stroke and water supply control. Optional high temperature camera systems support internal inspection and precise application, further enhancing safety and effectiveness during hot repairs.

Depending on the model, operators can achieve adjustable gunning rates typically between 20 and 40kg per minute, enabling both rapid and controlled refractory application.

Robust Design for Harsh Industrial Environments

Constructed for demanding steel plant conditions, the RH gunning manipulators feature protective housings that guard against slag splashes and contamination, ensuring reliable operation under extreme conditions.

According to VELCO, this technology not only improves working conditions but also enables internal snorkel repairs that are otherwise not feasible without mechanised support—a major advantage for plant maintenance teams.

Supporting Modern Steel Production

As steelmakers continue to seek ways to optimise production uptime and enhance safety standards, solutions like VELCO’s RH Gunning Manipulator offer a valuable combination of advanced control, reduced operator exposure and improved refractory application quality. For operators looking to modernise refractory maintenance practices while protecting employees and improving operational efficiency, VELCO’s new gunning manipulator presents a compelling option.

#Velco #GunningMachines #TrentRefractories #Refractories #Monolithics #Precast #Bricks

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