Abstract:
A space from a charging hole to a discharge hole of a continuous heating furnace is divided into zones. A furnace temperature is assumed for each zone and a plurality of furnace temperature patterns are set. A metallization rate αOUT at the discharge hole is calculated for each furnace temperature pattern, using the time functions of the metallization rate α and the carbon content rate β of a raw material calculated in advance using a test. The necessary amount of heat applied to the continuous heating furnace is calculated for the furnace temperature patterns in which the calculated metallization rate αOUT is greater than or equal to a target value. The furnace temperature pattern which realizes the minimum necessary amount of heat applied is set as the optimal furnace temperature pattern. A fuel supplied to a burner is controlled based on the optimal furnace temperature pattern.