A blast furnace is called so because it operates by "blasting" air into the furnace to promote the combustion of fuel and facilitate the smelting process. The term "blast" refers to the high-pressure air that is blown into the furnace through tuyeres (pipes) at the bottom.
This process is essential for producing molten iron from iron ore. When air is blasted into the furnace, it reacts with the coke (a carbon-rich material used as a fuel and reducing agent) to generate intense heat and carbon monoxide. The heat melts the iron ore, and the carbon monoxide reduces the iron oxides to produce molten iron.
In summary, the "blast" in "blast furnace" describes the method of introducing air or oxygen to support the combustion process, thereby allowing for the efficient production of iron.
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