What it does
The AOD furnace is an oxygen-blowing decarburization furnace for refining stainless steel, mainly used to reduce the carbon content in molten steel while maintaining alloying elements
Your inspiration
The AOD furnace (Argon Oxygen Decarburization) is mainly used in stainless steel refining. It operates by injecting oxygen and argon into molten steel to reduce carbon content while preserving valuable alloy elements. My design focuses on the outer shell, optimizing heat dissipation channels, maintenance access, and operator visibility. The exterior integrates angled panels and ventilation details to reflect the technical and powerful nature of the equipment, while ensuring safety and practicality.
How it works
This design focuses on the outer structure of the AOD furnace (Argon Oxygen Decarburization), aiming to improve functionality, safety, and visual identity. Key features include angled surfaces for better drainage of dust and heat, clearly marked access panels for maintenance, and optimized ventilation layout to support internal cooling systems. The outer shell uses modular panels for easy replacement and future upgrades. Color coding and texture contrasts are applied to distinguish functional zones and improve operational clarity.
Design process
The design started with research on AOD furnace structure and industrial safety standards. I analyzed existing furnace appearances and identified issues like bulky form, poor ventilation visibility, and weak identity. Based on that, I sketched multiple concept drafts focusing on structure segmentation and surface dynamics. Then, I used 3D modeling software to build the prototype, refining details such as vent layout, panel angles, and maintenance access points. After feedback, I optimized the design by adjusting proportions and simplifying structural lines to balance aesthetics and functionality. The final prototype enhances brand recognition, improves usability, and reflects modern industrial aesthetics.
How it is different
Unlike traditional AOD furnaces with plain, bulky appearances, my design integrates dynamic geometric lines and segmented panels to create a more modern and technical look. It emphasizes functional zoning—clearly defining heat dissipation areas, maintenance access, and operator interfaces. The use of high-contrast industrial colors also enhances visual recognition and safety. This approach combines aesthetics with practical needs, giving the furnace a distinctive identity within industrial environments.
Future plans
In the future, I plan to further optimize the structure for modular production and easier maintenance. I also hope to apply smart indicators and interactive interfaces to enhance user experience and safety. The goal is to collaborate with manufacturers to bring this design into real industrial application.
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